A 16-year-old youth has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm to a soldier during a fight.

Police in Abingdon referred the youth to the Youth Offending Team, a panel comprising the police, probation service and social services. The panel investigates serious cases involving juveniles.

After considering the case the panel recommended the youth be charged and sent to court. He has been bailed to appear before Didcot Youth Court on August 17 accused of causing grievous bodily harm. He also faces a drink-driving charge.

The incidents are alleged to have taken place in West St Helen Street, Abingdon, last month. A 22-year-old soldier from Dalton Barracks suffered a fractured eye socket.