Pubgoer who fractured man's skull after punch in village pub avoids jail

Johnathan Purr punched his victim in the Crown Inn in the village of Weston, near Towcester, May 23 last year.

Northampton Crown Court heard the victim suffered bleeding in his brain and fractured vertebrae as a result of the attack.

John Hallissey, prosecuting, said the victim suffered a seizure a few days after the attack and has been forced hand in his driving licence for 12 months.

Mr Hallissey said the victim was the managing director of a company that employs 100 people and was worried about being able to fulfil his responsibilities.

However, the court heard he had “no grudge” towards the victim and just felt lucky to be alive.

Purr, of Plumpton, near Towcester, was arrested shortly after the attack and pleaded guilty to a charge of causing grievous bodily harm.

Recorder Sally Hancox sentenced Purr to 14 months in prison, suspended for two years. He must also complete 120 hours unpaid work.