A SERIOUS assault accused charged with scarring a man for life with a piece of broken glass may not be fit to stand trial after he was diagnosed with a brain disorder, Greenock Sheriff Court has heard.

Martin McGrath has had a recent diagnosis of Korsakoff syndrome - a neurological condition commonly caused by alcohol misuse - with memory loss being one of the main symptoms, a calling of the case was told.

The 48-year-old is charged, along with co-accused Kathleen McHugh, with attacking a man at Holmscroft Avenue in April 2021.

McGrath is said to have repeatedly struck the man on the body with a shard of glass to his severe injury and permanent disfigurement.

McHugh, 43, is charged with initially assaulting the alleged victim.

McGrath appeared in the dock alone for the latest calling of the case as solicitor Aidan Gallagher told the court there is a 'question mark over whether he is in a position to provide instruction'.

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Mr Gallagher said: "His cognitive abilities have been impaired quite significantly."

The previously assigned October 16 jury trial was adjourned for additional medical reports, with a new date set for February 19 next year.

A further pre-trial hearing will take place on January 23 and McGrath's bail was continued.

Sheriff James Varney granted a warrant to apprehend McHugh over her failure to appear at last week's hearing.

McGrath, of Ann Street, and McHugh, of Mary Street, previously pleaded not guilty to the indictment charges through their respective lawyers Mr Gallagher and Paul Keenan.