A MAN is to stand trial charged with attempting to murder a police officer with a sword.

Craig Brown is alleged to have attacked Sergeant Brian Simpson in Dumbarton last September.

Prosecutors claim he threatened Sgt Simpson before repeatedly trying to hit him on the head and body with the weapon.

The 30-year-old is further charged with damaging a police vehicle by striking it with the sword.

Mr Brown is also accused of having an offensive weapon.

His QC Thomas Ross pled not guilty on his behalf during a short hearing at the High Court in Glasgow today.

Lady Stacey set a trial due to begin in May.

The case could last around three days.