THE sentencing of a father who attacked a female primary school headteacher after she suspended his son for allegedly racially abusing another pupil has been adjourned.

Paul Stratford punched and forcefully shoved Zita McCormick in front of staff in the school's foyer after a heated altercation over his eight-year-old son Brendan's behaviour.

The 31-year-old, of Beaulieu Close, appeared this afternoon at Swindon Magistrates' Court where he was due to be sentenced after being found guilty of assault by beating.

But the court heard Stratford did not attend a pre-sentence report appointment because he had not received the letter alerting him of the date.

Steven Weighell, defending, told district judge Simon Cooper that his client had not received any post for six days and that when it did eventually turn up, the date of the appointment had passed.

The judge adjourned the case so that Stratford can meet the probation service and a report can be compiled.

Stratford tried to claim he was protecting his son and only gently pushed Mrs McCormick's wagging finger away from his son's face, fearing her long nails could blind him.

The Seven Fields Primary School headteacher had sent Brendan home for the day following his third act of anti-social behaviour that week.

He allegedly swore in front of a group of Spanish visitors and was also involved in racially abusing a Somalian boy.

During the trial, Mrs McCormick told the court she tried to explain the situation, but Stratford was very angry, shouting 'You called my son a f****** thug'.

She said he made two huge steps towards her and actually punched and pushed her, before saying 'Don't tell my son off'. 

Stratford was convicted of assault by magistrates last month following the incident on June 22.

The father, wearing a brown coat and grey hoody, was released on unconditional bail to appear for sentencing on December 20.

He covered his face as he left the court without comment.