AN Offenham man, who stamped on his victim's forehead after an argument over a game of pool, has been jailed for seven months.

Fortunately, the injury to Frank Meadows was not serious and he was able to get up off the ground in High Street, Evesham, and chase after his attacker.

A day later, Worcester Crown Court heard, Dalton stole drink worth £19 and damaged a police patrol car after his arrest near the off-licence he targeted.

Dalton, aged 28, of Newtown pleaded guilty to affray, theft and criminal damage.

An argument developed in the Ambassador Club, Evesham, on August 16 between Dalton and Mr Meadows over the potting of the black ball, said Ian Ball, prosecuting.

When Mr Meadows left the club with his friend Mark Cambridge, they saw Dalton outside. He later came up to them outside a kebab house, extending his hand to Mr Meadows and saying sorry.

As Mr Meadows shook hands, he was punched to the ground by Dalton and kicked in the back by a friend of the defendant.

Dalton had 21 previous court appearances, his offending included assault, thefts and damage.

His accomplice, who prevented Mr Cambridge coming to the aid of the victim, was given 100 hours' community work by magistrates.

William Rickarby, defending, said Dalton had drunk two gallons of strong lager that night and was alcohol dependent.

He had been affected by finding his father dead at his home in Droitwich which had caused extreme distress and led to criminal behaviour.