A DRINKER who admitted he was an “idiot” for attacking a doorman was shown leniency by a court after photographs of his own injuries were presented to magistrates.

Wayne Kemble, 42, admitted assaulting John Woolhouse after his friends were denied entry to a pub in Old Town. The doorman told police he was punched in the face by Kemble after stopping several men he identified as known troublemakers.

But Kemble claimed he had only pushed Mr Woolhouse and needed stitches to his face after being manhandled in the confrontation.

Prosecutor Keith Ballinger told Swindon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday that Mr Woolhouse was working at Bar 20, formerly the King’s Arms, on February 22.

The doorman suffered pain and bruising below his eye.

Kemble, from East Walcot, was arrested and told police he had consumed between eight and 10 pints of lager.

Richard Williams, defending, told the court the long-serving Honda worker had made frank admissions to officers. Kemble was ordered to pay a £105 fine and £85 costs, but was not handed a victim surcharge.