Bjorn Grech, 28, of St Paul's Bay, this afternoon was accused in court of attempting to seriously injure another man in a fight which broke out in City Gate, Valletta yesterday.

The victim suffered a stab wound.

Both men are monti hawkers. The argument had allegedly broken out over a watch.

Grech, who turned himself in yesterday, was also accused of illegal possession of a weapon and disturbing the peace. He pleaded not guilty.

During arguments on bail, the defence pleaded that the injuries were not serious.

Inspector Kylie Borg agreed that the injuries were slight but said they were done with a knife.

Bail was granted against a deposit of €1,000 and a personal guarantee of €5,000.

The accused was ordered to stay away from the victim and his family.

Lawyers Mario Spiteri and Franco Debono were defence counsel.