DGudgeon

Published at 01:00, Saturday, 16 October 2004

A DRUNKEN thug punched a man who dropped his trousers in front of him in Carlisle.

Three other people joined the attack, leaving the victim with bruising.

Gary Ferguson, who struck the first blow, told police he had drunk ten pints that day and could not really remember what happened.

The 20-year-old, of Merith Avenue, Botcherby, Carlisle, was ordered to carry out 150 hours’ unpaid work in the community by city magistrates. He admitted assaulting Paul Cosgrove, causing him actual bodily harm, and was ordered to pay £150 compensation and £43 costs.

Mr Cosgrove reported the attack to police at about 5.15pm on July 25. He said he had been punched, kicked and stamped on. Cosgrove later identified Ferguson. The others were never traced.

Geoff Clapp, defending, said Mr Cosgrove turned funny when Ferguson asked why he had dropped his trousers. The two ended up fighting but Ferguson only threw one punch and did not kick him.

Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk