Coach jailed for hitting doorman

Ian Gordon Armstrong was on his first evening out with his wife since the birth of their daughter eight months earlier, Helen Cousins representing him told Leeds Crown Court yesterday.

They were in the Box wine bar in Headingley, Leeds when they were told it was closing after 11pm for a staff gathering.

Armstrong joined others leaving but realised he had left his coat containing his money behind and returned for it.

When he was escorted back out by the doorman Steven Hullah he felt provoked by his attitude although realised now there was no justification, she said.

Mehran Nassiri prosecuting told the court Armstrong struck one blow without warning as Mr Hullah was looking in another direction.

He fell to the ground knocked unconscious and the next thing he knew was waking up in hospital.

He suffered extensive fractures of the jaw and facial bones and after being referred for surgery spent five days in hospital.

Armstrong, 40, of Adel Wood Close, Leeds, admitted unlawful wounding and was jailed for 18 months.

His solicitor advocate urged the judge not to jail him immediately in spite of his “dreadful” record saying he had tried to turn his life around on his last release from prison.

He was highly regarded, coaching four football teams, two for children, and playing in the West Riding Amateur League.

Judge Geoffrey Marson QC jailing Armstrong said the blow was vicious and unjustified.