A spokesman at Chester Crown Court confirmed on Wednesday that Mr Spada's ill-health was the reason - for a second time.

"The defendant is still awaiting hospital tests," he said. "A new date will not be fixed until we know that he is fit to stand trial."

On Friday, Mr Spada, 47, who lives in the Old Market Place, told the Knutsford Guardian: "There is nothing I want to say, thank you very much."

In January, Judge Roger Dutton switched the three-day trial to Knutsford Crown Court, where it was then adjourned for two months.

It is believed Recorder Trevor Jones was unhappy about the case being heard in Mr Spada's home town.

The case was adjourned for a second time on March 28 because Mr Spada had been taken to Macclesfield Hospital with chest pains.

"Mr Spada was taken by ambulance the night before the trial where he underwent a number of tests," said a spokesman for his solicitors, Shepherd Oak in Wilmslow.

"He is still unwell and has been told to rest at home while he awaits further tests."

A new date could be fixed on Tuesday. Mr Spada has denied common assault and affray.