A Sunderland man has avoided prison after he launched a brutal series of attacks on his ex-girlfriend in a pub, including punching her in the face, kicking her and stamping on her head.
Ian McGarley, 34, committed the assaults during the King’s Coronation in May last year in a Sunderland pub.
He decided to ask her for a cigarette, but after she made a comment, he decided to attack her and punched her in the face.
He then punched her a second time after she got up, this time in the chin, before kicking and stamping on her head.
McGarley, 34, of no fixed address but who lives in Sunderland, admitted assault and a bail act offence.
Mr Recorder David Gordon said it was an “absolutely disgraceful piece of behaviour” while families, including children, were present.
The recorder said: “It was a special family day being put on by the public house, perhaps because it was the weekend of the King’s coronation.”
McGarley, who has no previous convictions, was sentenced to 20 months, suspended for two years, with rehabilitation requirements including alcohol monitoring.
He was also given a five year restraining order.
Rachel Kelly, defending, said McGarley does not remember what he did and added: “He didn’t go there with any intention to hurt the woman.
“He does regret the way he acted, he’s deeply ashamed and remorseful.”
Miss Kelly said McGarley has taken steps to reduce his alcohol intake and has secured employment.