A MAN who punched another drinker over provocative comments was told he should have turned the other cheek.

Durham Crown Court, sitting at Newcastle, was told Alan Kerr took exception to “distasteful” remarks made by the other man, who was celebrating his birthday at The Wicket Gate, in Chester-le-Street, on March 9, 2019.

Jonathan Harley, prosecuting, said the complainant was with family members, but after they left he began talking to Kerr and his partner plus another couple.

Mr Harley said the victim recalled, “having a good laugh in a good atmosphere”, but could recall nothing more until he came round on the ground outside the Front Street pub with people standing around him.

He was taken to hospital suffering a fractured left cheek bone, plus swellings to his left eye and nose.

Reading from his impact statement Mr Harley said following the incident, the victim felt wary about going out and was always looking over his shoulder.

Mr Harley said it appeared that as he left the pub Kerr followed and struck him once with his left fist just outside.

Kerr, 46, of Baden Street, Chester-le-Street, admitted causing grievous bodily harm. His record includes violence, both in this country and in Australia.

Vic Laffey, mitigating, told the court: “He accepts he acted aggressively, but, that said, this man made sexual and racist comments to his partner.”

Mr Laffey said some of those comments were “allowed to pass”, until he lost his temper at one final offensive remark.

Judge Ray Singh said he would sentence on the basis that the defendant was provoked by the comments, although the victim had not behaved aggressively.

He told Kerr the injuries could have been a lot worse, and added: “Next time anybody provokes you, saying things you may find distasteful, walk away.”

Passing an eight-month sentence, suspended for two years, he ordered Kerr to complete 30 probation rehabilitation days, while he will also be subject to a three-month 8pm to 6am home curfew.