A MAN has avoided jail despite repeatedly punching another man in the face for 'gobbing off' outside a pub.

Police were called to Witton Street in Northwich at around 2.40am on March 26, 2022, following reports of man being assaulted.

Samuel Mills, of Wellington Street, Castle, was found at the scene and arrested as his victim, lying motionless in the street, received first aid from door staff at the nearby Quayside pub. 

A second man, also arrested at the scene, is alleged to have been involved in the assault and is due to stand trial in September.

Twenty-six-year-old Mills admitted to officers he had assaulted the man, but later claimed it had been in self-defence.

A Cheshire Police spokesman said: "During the incident it is alleged Mills grabbed a hold of the complainant and threw him to the floor, punching him to the face at least five times.

"He is also alleged to have been assaulted by a second man.

"Both defendants remain at the scene and are arrested by attending officers.

"Mills made comments to officers admitting the assault, stating the complainant was 'gobbing off' so he 'cracked him'.

"On interview, Mills admitted assaulting the complainant, but claimed it was in self-defence."

Mills appeared at Chester Crown Court on Friday, August 2, where he pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

Judge Steven Everett handed him a two-year jail sentence, but suspended it for two years.

The judge also ordered Mills to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and pay £2,500 in compensation to his victim.

Mills was also ordered to pay court costs of £900 to the Crown Prosecution Service as well as a surcharge for victim's services of £156.