Holbeach man accused of intentional strangulation faces trial

A Holbeach man will go on trial in September after he denied a charge of intentional strangulation following an incident in Whaplode.

David Francois-Barnshaw, 48, pleaded not guilty to three offences when he appeared at Lincoln Crown Court today (Tuesday, May 20).

Mr Francois-Barnshaw denied a charge of intentional strangulation which is alleged to have occurred on Easter Sunday (April 20) this year.

He also pleaded not guilty to a charge of battery against the same woman and a third count of damaging her car.

Judge Catarina Sjolin Knight adjourned those matters for a two day trial beginning at Lincoln Crown Court on September 30.

The court heard Mr Francois-Barnshaw, of Balmoral Way, Holbeach, indicated guilty pleas to four other offences when he appeared at Magistrates’ Court.

They are criminal damage to a bedroom door, driving without due care and attention, possessing a bladed article in a public place and failing to provide a specimen.

He will be sentenced for those matters at the conclusion of his trial.

Mr Francois-Barnshaw was remanded into custody by Judge Sjolin Knight.

He will next appear at Lincoln Crown Court for a pre-trial hearing on July 11.

Police previously said they were called  to an incident at Sandringham Close in Whaplode at 10.11pm on Sunday, April 20.

A second call to police was made six minutes later following a non-injury road traffic collision on Mill Lane in the village.

more >

MP’s delight as he claims Home Office has confirmed it will not house asylum seekers at former Sutton Bridge hotel

15 Jul 2026

Plea for cash to see Forge expand

15 Jul 2026

Warm welcome for judges

15 Jul 2026

Calls for new cemetery site

15 Jul 2026

Gold for Pinchbeck Guide

15 Jul 2026

Neighbours win a £1m lottery prize

15 Jul 2026