A MAN has been left with a suspected fractured skull after he was attacked with a thug wielding a baseball bat, a court heard.

James Healy was hit in the face with the bat in front of his son, aged seven, and his seven-months pregnant wife Sophie at their home in Kelvedon.

Mr Healy suffered a broken nose, two black eyes and facial bruising, and doctors are yet to confirm whether his skull has been fractured.

A man charged with grievous bodily harm with intent in connection with the incident on the evening of December 12, has denied being responsible for the attack.

Barry Hart, 47, appeared in Colchester Magistrates’ Court yesterday, to face the charge, and a charge of possessing an offensive weapon.

It is alleged he kicked his way into the home before attacking Mr Healey.

Mr and Mrs Healey fled to another room and wedged the door shut with a chair in a bid to protect their family. Magistrates were told Mrs Healy was left so distraught by the incident police called an ambulance for her.

Philip Pearson, prosecuting, described the scene as “having blood everywhere” .

He said: “This was a serious and malicious use of a weapon with intent to cause injury.”

The court was not told why Mr Healy was assaulted.

Hart, of Chinook, Highwoods, Colchester, did not enter a plea during the hearing, but Henny Tatum, representing him, said dad-of-three Hart clearly and vehemently denied any involvement.

Magistrates turned down a bail application and unemployed Hart, who appeared in court from the cells wearing a red prison tracksuit, was remanded in custody.

Hart will appear at Chelmsford Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing in March.