A former serviceman who bit off part of a victim's ear during a city centre brawl has been put behind bars.

Andrew Robinson gave Darren Green a black eye and cut lip before he sank his teeth into Barry Cougle's ear.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how trouble flared after a drinking session in Sunderland when the men were celebrating the end of a charity football match on March 25.

It was as the men, who had all been drinking heavily, headed to a taxi rank the violence broke out at Park Lane.

Robinson, 30, first attacked Mr Green, before turning his violence onto Mr Cougle when he stepped in to help.

Prosecutor Gavin Doig told the court: "Darren Green and the defendant were walking and talking along Park Lane when, according to Mr Green, he was struck to the face two blows.

"He could give no further details because of his intoxication and because he was the subject of an assault.

"Mr Cougle saw what was happening and intervened to assit Mr Green and prevent the fight continuing.

"Mr Cougle stepped forward to break them up and found himself on the ground with the defendant on top of him.

"Mr Cougle states he felt a bite to his left ear which became harder and harder .

"He felt the defendant pulling and tugging on his ear."

THe court heard by this point in the incident both Robinson and Mr Cougle were being attacked by other men, who were kicking them on the ground.

Mr Doig added: "Mr Cougle felt part of his ear was bitten off then the defendant dissisted."

The court hear the severed flesh was recovered but medics at Sunderland Royal Hospital were unable to rea-attach it.

It is hoped he may be able to have reconstructive surgery on the wound.

Robinson , of Dorreen Avenue, Seaham, County Durham, admitted wounding and assault.

THe court heard during his career in the forces Robinson served in warzones and was on active service in the Gulf, Kosovo and Afghanistan.

Defence barrister Jamie Adams said Robinson, who feels deep regret and shame for what he did, had been plied with drink on the night of the attack as it was the eve of his birthday.

MR Adams handed into the court a bundle of "glowing" references to Robinson's character and said the former servicememn was normally a "good natured man, a very gentleman."

The court heard since leaving the services Robinson, who has never been in trouble with the police before, has set up a construction business with his brother.

Mr Adams said the business would be in danger of collapse if Robinson was sent to jail.

But Judge David Wood said the offence was so serious only a custodial sentence could be justified.

THe judge jailed Robinson for three years.