A 69-year-old man from Felixstowe has been charged with the attempted murder of his 73-year-old neighbour three years ago.

John Hubbard is accused of trying to kill Malcolm Gordon Hockley in Exmoor Road, Felixstowe.

Hubbard is said to have attacked Mr Hockley in an area mainly consisting of bungalows for the elderly.

The alleged incident took place on May 29, 2010.

Mr Hockley was said to have been sitting in the garden of the sheltered accommodation where he lived when he was injured at around 6.20pm.

He was taken to Ipswich Hospital with wounds to his throat and head. He also had injuries to his hands, lower body, face and back.

Mr Hockley, known as Gordon and for being a keen fisherman, was allowed home after a week in hospital.

Hubbard was arrested and taken to Ipswich police station shortly after Mr Hockley sustained his injuries.

Then aged 66, he was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the alleged attack.

However, Hubbard was subsequently detained under the Mental Health Act.

Now, three years on Hubbard has been charged and the first hearing of his case has taken place before magistrates in Chelmsford.

The case has been adjourned until June 21.

Hubbard, whose address is given on court records as the Norvic Centre, Northside, Norwich, did not attend the hearing.

The seriousness of the allegation he is facing is such that the case will be transferred to a crown court.

Following the incident in Exmoor Road police, social care workers, hospital officials and representatives of Flagship Housing met residents to reassure them.