A PUBLICAN will stand trial over a “noise at work” risk assessment.

Colin Smith, who runs the Bull Pub in Crouch Street, Colchester, was back at magistrates court for contravening a health and safety notice requiring a “suitable and sufficient” assessment to be done.

He had previously denied the charge and brought his expert witness to Colchester Magistrates’ Court for a case management hearing yesterday.

However, he was reprimanded by the clerk for failing to provide the Crown Prosecution Service with his expert evidence before the court appearance.

Victoria Jempson, prosecuting, explained Smith, 50, had also not turned up to two earlier hearings and could face a wasted costs application at his trial, whether he wins or not.

Smith said: “At the time of the previous court case I was in hospital and couldn’t attend, but at the last one my witness spoke with someone from Colchester Council to ask what information she’d require but because the matter was going to court, she said she couldn’t do so.

“The noise risk assessment is fully compliant.”

The alleged offence dates back to October last year.

A trial date was fixed for September 6. Until then Smith is on unconditional bail.

READ MORE: DAVE INTRODUCES HIS LAST ACT AT THE BULL AFTER NINE YEARS