A Kirk Michael man has been jailed for six weeks for assaulting a pub licensee after he was refused entry.

Joshua Antony Castle, of Ballaleigh Road, kneed his victim in the groin, punched him in the face and bit his finger during the attack.

The 29-year-old admitted an offence of common assault committed at Quids Inn, in Douglas, on May 25 after he had been drinking from midday.

We previously reported how Castle arrived at the pub at 10.10pm.

He was refused entry by the licensee who was at the door and told him that he was too intoxicated.

This prompted Castle to knee the man in the groin then punch him to the side of the face. As the licensee attempted to restrain Castle, he bit his little finger before leaving the scene.

Police later found Castle in the sunken gardens opposite Jaks bar and arrested him.

When interviewed by police, he told officers that he could not remember the incident but said he was embarrassed when shown CCTV footage.

The licensee was said to have suffered pain to his left cheek along with a sore groin and a scrape and bruise to his finger.

Defence advocate David Clegg said that the bite to the licensee’s finger had been an ’ineffectual’ one which had not broken the skin.

’The references and probation report almost suggest two different people,’ said the advocate.

’Mr Castle’s position is that when he moved to the Isle of Man he intended to move on with his life.

’The references suggest a hardworking young man.

’He has not been in trouble for 10 years.

Shocked

’His submission is that this was completely out of character for the man he is now.

’He couldn’t be more shocked by what he has done.

’He has known since his first appearance that he’s at high risk of going to prison.’

High Bailiff Jayne Hughes told Castle: ’You were intoxicated.

’This was the reason why the licensee refused you access to Quids Inn. He was absolutely right to refuse you access.

’It can’t be said you don’t have a violent history, you certainly do.

’People who are working in the late night community must have the protection of the court.’

Mrs Hugheest added: ’A clear message has to go out that those who assault licence holders can expect a custodial sentence.’