A charge of assaulting an elderly man which occurred as part of a dispute between neighbours has been admitted just ahead of a contest being heard.

Aidan Murphy (59) from Spout Gardens, Fivemiletown originally denied causing actual bodily harm to the victim on February 5, but pleaded guilty at the last minute at Dungannon Magistrates Court.

He further accepted damaging the 76-year-old victim’s glasses during the attack.

Deputy District Judge Sean O’Hare ruled pre-sentence reports were essential given the circumstances of the case. He remanded Murphy on continuing bail to return for sentencing on October 6.