A 28-YEAR-OLD man accused of having a samurai sword during an alleged affray in the Cotswolds will stand trial.

Ashley Langley is said to have been in possession of the weapon during the alleged affray outside Maidencroft Cottages in Kempsford, on October 5.

His defence is that, although there was a Samurai sword in a cupboard in the house, it was never taken out, Gloucester Crown Court was told on Friday.

Told that Langley will deny both charges, Judge Jamie Tabor QC bailed him on the condition he does not enter Gloucestershire and lives at an address in Inskip in Skelmersdale, Lancashire.

His defence said he is anxious to be able to return to the area as soon as possible to resume work in Swindon and have access to his children.

Judge Tabor said his trial would be held in the week commencing March 30.