A Penrith man celebrating his 50th birthday punched a stranger in a drunken unprovoked attack outside a pub.
David Potts (50), told police after the incident he had “no recollection” of his assault on Harry Walker.
Mr Walker was unknown to Potts and had gone outside the town centre Woolpack pub for a cigarette at around 12-45am on 16th October.
“He felt a sudden hard push to the back, causing him to stumble into his friends,” Carlisle Magistrates’ Court heard.
Mr Walker turned around and saw Potts, who punched him in the face causing a tooth to be chipped and a bloody nose.
A woman working in the pub took steps to prevent further trouble.
The two men were separated. Potts, who was later arrested and shown CCTV from the pub, told police: “I didn’t know what I’ve done until you showed me.”
The prosecutor added: “He states he is very sorry for what he has done and his actions are terrible.” Potts, of Prince Charles Close, Penrith, admitted assault by beating — his first criminal conviction for 23 years.
Magistrates heard Potts was a Penrith Rugby Club committee member who attended a pre-match meal the day before.
Friends suggested they then go into town to celebrate his 50th birthday. “He wasn’t keen but he was persuaded,” said a probation officer who interviewed him and told the court of his remorse.
Potts said: “I just apologise for what I’ve done. I had no recollection of my actions.”
Banned from Penrith and Carlisle pubwatch premises until November this year, Potts had taken steps to stop drinking since the incident and worked full-time.
He must pay a £1,055 fine and £300 compensation to Mr Walker, plus £85 costs and a £422 surcharge.
