A MAN accused of a stabbing during Eid prayers at a Bradford mosque today made his first appearance at the Crown Court.

Fezan Hussain, 26, of Radfield Road, Wyke, Bradford, is charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon.

He is remanded in custody in Leeds Prison after being sent to Bradford Crown Court by the city’s magistrates on May 4.

Hussain, who wore a round-necked grey sweatshirt, appeared before the court on a video link to the prison. He was represented by David McGonigal, with Jonathan Sharp for the prosecution.

The Recorder of Bradford, Judge Richard Mansell QC, conducted the plea and trial preparation hearing for which a Class 1 judge was required.

Detectives charged Hussain after they reported that a man in his 20s had been seriously assaulted inside the Islamic Centre in Newton Street, West Bowling, Bradford, on Monday, May 2.

Mr McGonigal asked everyone to speak up because the defendant had hearing difficulties. He also requested that he was not arraigned today on the charges.

The court heard that a psychiatric report would be available in six weeks. Mr McGonigal said any issue would be over Hussain’s mental state.

He said that members of his family had attended at the court for today’s hearing.

Mr Sharp said he understand that the alleged victim was now out of danger.

Judge Mansell said he thought the trial would take up to three days. It was fixed to begin on October 24.

A further case management hearing will be held on September 16 when Hussain will attend at court via the video link.

Judge Mansell told Hussain he wasn’t taking any pleas on the indictment today because a psychiatrist was investigating his mental health.

He remanded him back into custody at the end of the half-hour hearing.