WINEHOUSE PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO ASSAULT

Amy Winehouse

Troubled star Amy Winehouse has pleaded not guilty to a charge of common assault over alleged claims she punched a fan. The singer appeared at London's City of Westminster Magistrates' today, where she entered a formal plea to the charge. It is claimed the Rehab singer lashed out at Sherene Flash during the End of Summer Ball in London last September when the fan asked for a picture. Flash claims Winehouse punched her in the eye and ran away, shrieking: "Life can't go on. I can't do this any more." Winehouse was subsequently charged with common assault earlier this month but has denied the accusation during her brief appearance in court today. Wearing a floral mini-dress and her trademark beehive wig, the singer spoke only to confirm her name and enter a not guilty plea. Winehouse, who was accompanied in court by her father, Mitch, apologized through her lawyer after she arrived late for the case. She is due back in court at a later date.