A MAN aged 44 suffered a fractured skull and remains in hospital in "a critical but stable condition" following an incident in East Reach, Taunton, on Friday afternoon, according to police.

Philip Adrian Hicks, 49, who was arrested after the incident, appeared in Taunton Magistrates' Court this morning (Wednesday) charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

The case was adjourned to Taunton Crown Court, where Mr Hicks, whose address was given as Lindley House, East Reach, Taunton, was ordered to attend on Wednesday, September 27.