A FORMER serviceman attacked a Worcester bouncer after falling out with his girlfriend, a court has heard.

O'Neill's doorman Paul Stokes was walking home from the St Nicholas Street bar in the early hours of Sunday, February 10, when he and a colleague saw Darren Cox and another man vandalising road signs.

Marie Watton, prosecuting at Worcester Magistrates Court yesterday, said: "Without warning that male (Cox) suddenly punched Mr Stokes to the side of the head by his left eye - it was with a clenched fist.

"Mr Cox said he couldn't remember what had gone on, because he'd drunk too much."

Miss Watton said Cox, of Weavers Court, near Perdiswell, Worcester, said he had drunk six beers at home before he went out on Saturday, February 9, followed by vodka, Red Bull and cider.

Barry Newton, defending, said: "Mr Cox is a former serviceman, having served five years and seen some active duty in Iraq and Bosnia."

Mr Newton said Cox and his girlfriend fell out prior to the assault, causing him to feel "morose".

"He was out with a friend, no-doubt drowning his sorrows," he added.

Cox, who admitted assault by beating, was fined £400 and must pay £250 compensation.