A man sustained serious facial injuries after having a beer glass smashed in his face, following a confrontation with an acquaintance over €20, a court heard yesterday.

The 59-year-old man, John Said, was testifying in the compilation of evidence against local council part-time employee Jason Sciberras, 37, from St Paul’s Bay.

The two were having a drink at the Aphrodite Bar in their hometown when the incident occurred on August 12 at around 10pm.

Mr Said told Magistrate Anthony Vella he had lent Mr Sciberras €20 some four weeks before and was surprised to see him at the bar as soon as he went in.

After walking into the bar, he told Mr Sciberras that he seemed to have enough money to drink beer but did not have the €20 he had borrowed from him.

It was at this moment that Mr Sciberras stood up and hit him with the beer glass, slashing his ear.

Police inspector Maurice Curmi said the accused told the police that Mr Said walked into the bar and, in a loud voice, said he owed him money.

Mr Sciberras is pleading not guilty to the charges brought against him.

The case continues.

Lawyer David Camilleri was defence counsel while inspector Maurice Curmi prosecuted.