[A] MAN has been handed a suspended jail term for drunken violent behaviour inside a Cumbrian town centre pub.
Conor Paterson, 25, was high on alcohol and Valium when he lashed out at a fellow customer at Penrith’s Last Orders as he sought to protect his partner.
Paterson used pool balls and his own sock to create a “makeshift weapon” but was swiftly disarmed by brave barman Adam Ruddick. Mr Ruddick then intervened again as Paterson picked up a pool cue during a 10-minute incident on August 3.
Paterson, who had since expressed shame and embarrassment for his behaviour, admitted an affray charge at Carlisle Crown Court.
A nine-month prison sentence was suspended for two years by Judge Peter Hughes QC. Paterson, of Aglionby Street, Carlisle, must also complete rehabilitation, 120 hours’ unpaid work and a “thinking skills” course.
“Your conduct really was quite disgraceful,” Judge Hughes told him.