Drunk attacks two at Glossop nightclub

Matthew Roberts admitted two counts of assault and was sentenced to a community order at High Peak Magistrates’ Court last Wednesday.

The court heard that both incidents occurred in the early hours of January 5, at Club HQ, on High Street East.

Victim Lucy Gregory said the 24-year-old kept bumping into her and her sister, Emily, who were dancing nearby.

She shoved Roberts, of Moorland Road, Stalybridge, and told him to stop standing on her feet.

He swore at her and told her to shut up and pointed his finger in her face.

The complainant’s sister grabbed him and he put Miss Gregory in a headlock and forced her onto the floor, grabbing her ponytail.

Bouncers threw Roberts out, who proceeded to push Daniel Gaunt to the floor and stamp on his head.

He suffered bruising to his cheek and eye and a cut in his mouth.

Prosecutor John Cooper said: “It’s lucky, and not down to your judgement, that we’re not looking at a more serious charge.”

Roberts, who was representing himself, said he completely regretted both incidents.

He said: “I’ve never done anything like this before. I’ve regretted it ever since and I will for the rest of my life. In September, I was the victim of an assault. My jaw was broken in three places and I was in hospital for a week. I’ve rarely gone out since.”

Addressing the defendant, chairman of the bench Robert Whatmough said: “The assault outside was very serious, unprovoked and totally unwarranted.

“The assault in September may have had an effect but you need to rise above that; you’re an intelligent man.”

He was sentenced to an eight-week curfew from 9pm to 7am and 200 hours of unpaid work.

Roberts was also ordered to pay £50 compensation to Miss Gregory, £200 to Mr Gaunt, £85 court costs and a £60 victim surcharge.