A WOMAN was knocked unconscious in a confrontation with a man she knew outside a nightclub, a court was told.

But, after a judge accepted the actions of the victim’s assailant, Paul Wallbanks, were “entirely out of character” he left court subject of a suspended prison sentence.

Wallbanks, however, must pay the woman £1,000 compensation and carry out 150-hours’ unpaid work.

Durham Crown Court heard that it arose after they came across each other while out drinking with friends, in Consett, on June 25.

Jonathan Harley, prosecuting, said the woman “had issues” with a man in Wallbank’s company and so left the K2 night spot.

She was followed out by Wallbanks and his friend who wanted to know what was troubling her.

It led to an angry confrontation as she had blocked them out on social media.

Mr Harley said this was to be her last memory that night as the next thing she recalled was waking in hospital.

Witnesses described Wallbanks approaching her aggressively, and some pushing and shoving took place.

Mr Harley said both were seen throwing punches, most of which failed to connect, before Wallbanks landed two blows to the woman’s face, causing her to go to ground.

He tried kicking her three times, while she was on the ground, but failed to connect.

Onlookers prevented him approaching her again, as she had fallen unconscious.

Although she was unconscious when police arrived on scene, she came round and was taken to hospital suffering an undisplaced fracture of her temple, with some initial internal bleeding.

Mr Harley said she remained in hospital for several more days and on release was still suffering pain and dizziness from her injuries.

Wallbanks, 31, of Pemberton Avenue, Consett, admitted a charge of wounding.

The court heard he has no previous convictions and his barrister, Alex Burns, handed a number of character testimonials to the court.

Mr Burns said Wallbanks previously worked with the victim, before moving jobs, and he “greatly regrets” events that night, for which he received, “some instant justice” from some of those at the scene, when he went over to check the woman’s condition.

Passing a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, Judge Christopher Prince said: “I accept this behaviour was entirely out of character, and, apart from this, you are a thoroughly conscientious, helpful and thoughtful person.”