Overview
- Barton, who appeared via video link Tuesday, pleaded not guilty and was remanded in custody with a seven‑day trial set for September 1.
- Co‑defendant Gary O’Grady was not arraigned, remained on conditional bail, and is due back in court on June 3.
- Both men face Section 18 wounding with intent, a top‑tier non‑fatal violent offence in UK law that often leads to strict bail decisions and long prison terms if convicted.
- The alleged victim is Kevin Lynch, 51, a former non‑league manager and headteacher, who suffered serious injuries, with reports of possible permanent damage to one eye.
- The incident was reported on March 8 near Huyton and Prescot Golf Club; Barton was charged on March 10 and a judge refused him bail on March 20.