A man was this morning charged with injuring a Malian street sweeper whom he allegedly hit with a spade after an argument.

Alan Harmsworth, 36, from Marsa pleaded not guilty to injuring Bakare Tesigue after an argument broke out because of the proximity of a wheely bin to the accused's Mercedes.

The alleged victim, who had to have six sutures applied, will be charged over this incident as he assaulted the accused and attempted to strangle him, the court heard.

Magistrate Gabriella Vella granted the man bail against a deposit of €500 and a personal guarantee of €5000 with a condition not to approach the street in Marsa where the incident took place.

He was however granted permission to go feed his horses in the stables he has in the vicinity.