England star charged over street brawl

England rugby star Lesley Vainikolo was charged today with causing grievous bodily harm following an early morning street brawl.

Vainikolo, 29, nicknamed The Volcano, was held after a fight in Bath, Somerset, at 2am on October 26.

A man in his 20s was taken to hospital with head injuries first thought to be "critical", but was later discharged.

He will appear at Bath Magistrates' Court on January 2 charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, Avon and Somerset Police said.

The Tongan-born winger, who plays for Gloucester Rugby Club and lives in Cheltenham, made his England debut in this year's Six Nations tournament.

The 6ft 2in, 17.5st winger has won five England caps after becoming eligible through his residency in the UK.

Gloucester Rugby Club spokesman Alastair Downey said there was "no reason" why Vainikolo, who remains on bail, could not feature in Gloucester's next match.

In a statement, the club said Vainikolo "vigorously contests" the allegation and would not allow the case to distract him from his game. He has not been suspended.

Mr Downey said: "Gloucester Rugby can confirm that Lesley Vainikolo has been charged with an allegation of grievous bodily harm (GBH) arising from an incident that took place on October 26 2008.

"Lesley vigorously contests this allegation and, as demonstrated this season, remains completely focused on his rugby and will not allow this matter to distract him from his immediate rugby commitments to both his club and country.

"Neither the player or the club will be making any further comment."

Vainikolo was arrested after an incident outside the Second Bridge nightclub in Bath's Manvers Street.