A POLISH man facing assault allegations has been allowed to return to his homeland until his trial in the New Year.

Seasonal worker Zdzislav Bakowski, who was in the UK working for a marquee hire company, is accused of assaulting a man and maklng an alleged racially derogatory comment.

The incident is said to have taken place at a celebration to mark the end of his work season, on September 30.

Mr Bakowski, who was to have returned to Poland at the end of the period of employment, appeared at Durham Crown Court accused of racially aggravated assault, in which he is said to have referred to his victim, as “an English b*****d”.

He is also charged with assaulting the same man, causing him actual bodily harm.

The 52-year-old defendant, who has been living at an address in West End, Wolsingham, denied both charges.

Judge Christopher Prince said it should only require a short trial, as the only apparent issue is the defendant denying causing any injury.

Rebecca Brown, for Mr Bakowski, agreed and said it was, “a one witness case”, and should only last a day.

The trial was, therefore, fixed for January 24.

Asked about bail terms, Ms Brown said her client has surrendered his identity documents and driving licence, and has had to live at the Wolsingham address.

“He’s a Polish national who came here to fulfil a specific period of employment, which is now over.

“That was the reason for the celebration, that night.”

She told the court that he will now have to relinquish the accommodation.

Ms Brown said he is of previous good character and hoped to return to Poland.

Having received assurances from prosecutor Emma Dowling, via the CPS, that a European Arrest Warrant agreement is in place between the UK and Poland, at least until Brexit is completed, in March, Judge Prince agreed to allow the defendant bail pending his trial.

But he made it a condition that Mr Bakowski must ring his Teesside-based firm of solicitors every fortnight, and, also on January 18, ahead of the trial date.