A NEW dad who smashed a man's cheekbone in an unprovoked attack outside a pub, has been given a new jail term.
Jason Joyce, 25, who is already serving two years for burglary, was given another eight months.
A judge slammed the "wrong man" assault as "nasty".
Judge Anthony Proctor said the defendant had had too much to drink.
Most people did not think straight in such circumstances.
Joyce, of Schofield Road, Rawtenstall, admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm, at Burnley Crown Court.
Philip Potter, prosecuting, said on January 11, at 2am, victim Mark Brown, had been at the Queens Arms, in Bank Street, Rawtenstall.
The defendant walked up to him and punched him for no reason.
Mr Brown fell to the ground and Joyce threw a second punch, which missed.
He was pushed away by an onlooker.
The victim, who was bruised and bleeding, went to hospital, where it was found his right cheekbone was fractured and he had to undergo surgery.
Mr Potter said in February the defendant was sentenced to two years in custody for burglary and the assault was committed on bail.
Graham Knowles, defending, said Joyce had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.
He wanted to apologise to Mr Brown and wished him a full recovery.
Joyce had had too much alcohol and a remark was made, although not by the victim.
He took it as being abusive, turned round and got the wrong man.
He said the assault would not have been justified if he had got the right man.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article