Thug punched reveller to the ground in Chesterfield town centre

Chesterfield magistrates’ court heard last Thursday, January 28, how Aaron Thackray, 22, of New Street, Grassmoor, Chesterfield, attacked another man after a dispute outside The Association Bar, on Corporation Street.

Prosecuting solicitor Becky Allsop said: “The complainant suffered a cut to the right side of his lip and pain to his jaw with a small cut and lump to the back of his head.”

CCTV footage showed the complainant waving his arms and wandering back and forwards in the street as bar door staff tried to lead him away.

Thackray was filmed approaching the complainant and punching him to the ground and then walking away.

Police arrested the defendant who was also found with MDMA drugs.

Thackray told police he punched the complainant because he had been threatening his friend.

The defendant, who has a previous conviction for assault, pleaded guilty to assault and possessing a class A drug after the incident on November 13, last year.

Defence solicitor Kirsty Sargent said the complainant had been gesturing and making comments before he was attacked.

She added that Thackray has tried to cut back on drinking but wants help.

District Judge Andrew Davison said: “The complainant didn’t help himself.

“He was being a complete nuisance but he didn’t deserve what happened to him.”

District Judge Andrew Davison sentenced Thackray to 16 weeks of custody suspended for 12 months with a 16 week curfew, rehabilitation and 100 hours of unpaid work.

He must also pay £150 compensation, an £80 victim surcharge and £85 costs.