A property manager who headbutted a man at 1886 bar has been fined £1,000.

William Edward Smith, of Lheannag Park, Anagh Coar, admitted an offence of disorderly behaviour on licensed premises and was also banned from entering licensed premises, and buying or being sold alcohol for two months.

The victim of the headbutt would not make a complaint so no assault charge could be brought.

Prosecuting advocate James Robinson told the court that Smith, who is 54, was in the Regent Street bar at 9.15pm on May 22 with his partner.

He was said to have become involved in an altercation with his partner’s brother and cousin and ended up headbutting one of them.

After being arrested Smith answered ’no comment’ to all questions during an interview.

The court heard that his last conviction was in 2004.

Defence advocate David Reynolds asked for credit to be given for his client’s guilty plea.

The advocate said: ’Although Mr Smith had been drinking he would say the offence was not caused by alcohol. His partner was at the bar and he went to the toilet.

’When he returned her brother and cousin were around her and he was concerned and pushed them away.’

Mr Reynolds said that the woman’s cousin had already been escorted out, but had then been coming back inside while Smith was being escorted out.

’They were head to head and his partner’s cousin appeared to be coming head on towards him,’ said the advocate.

’There is no doubt he headbutted him but he states there was reason behind it.

’His arms were being held behind him and he was concerned the cousin was going back to his partner.’

Mr Reynolds went on to say there had been long standing issues between family members.

He continued: ’He is originally from Liverpool and is a self-employed property manager.

’He rarely goes on to licensed premises so a ban wouldn’t cause him any difficulties.

’Clearly this is a serious offence, aggravated by a headbutt, but it is not something that was due to alcohol, it was about family issues.’

High Bailiff Mrs Hughes also ordered Smith to pay £125 prosecution costs which he will pay along with the fine at a rate of £200 per month.