A DRUNKEN pub customer who head-butted and racially abused a doorman has narrowly escaped a jail sentence.
Chesterfield magistrates’ court heard on Monday how Kevin Rawsthorne, 37, of Netherfield Close, Matlock, had been drinking in the Railway Hotel, on Matlock Road, Matlock, when staff noticed he appeared drunk.
Prosecuting solicitor Becky Mahon said Rawsthorne was seen bumping into customers and doorman David Hanson asked him to leave, but as he was led to an external staircase he threatened Mr Hanson, head-butted him twice and repeatedly racially insulted him.
Ms Mahon added: “Rawsthorne looked at David Hanson from the stairs and on three occasions abused him.”
Refuse collector Rawsthorne, who has previous convictions for violence, pleaded guilty to committing the racially aggravated assault.
The married father-of-four claimed he had been suffering with and admitted having problems with alcohol. Defence solicitor Denny Lau said: “He understands he has done wrong.”
Dep District Judge Richardson gave Rawsthorne a 16 week custodial sentence suspended for 12 months.
He was placed on a 12 month supervision order to attend an alcohol course and complete 60 hours of unpaid work. Rawsthorne was banned from the Railway Hotel for two years and must pay £235 in compensation and costs.