Top Grand National horse trainer to stand trial after ‘attacking man during bust up at his countryside stables’
A TOP Grand National horse trainer is due to stand trial accused of attacking a man in his countryside stables.
Evan Williams, 54, allegedly assaulted Martin Dandridge during a bust-up in the Vale of Glamorgan last December.
The trainer, who has over 1,200 career winners, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court today.
He pleaded not guilty to two charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and inflicting grievous bodily harm.
Williams is accused of “unlawfully and maliciously causing grievous bodily harm” to Mr Dandridge.
His lawyers said they accept that Mr Dandridge had fallen, but dispute the injuries were caused that night.
The Recorder of Cardiff, Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, set a trial date for March 3 next year.
Williams was released on bail under the condition he does not contact the alleged victim.
The successful horse trainer won the Welsh Grand National in 2020 with The Secret Reprieve.
He also had horses placed in five consecutive Grand Nationals between 2009 and 2013.
Williams, who has scooped more than £3million in prize money over the past five years, runs a training facility at his home.
His website says: “Here at Evan Williams Racing based in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan you and your horse will benefit from excellent training facilities as well as a friendly and dedicated team that season after season supply a steady flow of winners at all levels.
” We pride ourselves on running a highly professional operation where all our horses and owners are very well looked after.”