A NEWLY-WED father launch-ed a "savage and cowardly" attack on a pub landlord, a court heard.

Adam Trotter, 20, attacked the licensee of the Queen's Head pub in Crook, County Durham, while another man pinned him down.

The attack happened on April 9 after the landlord, a Mr Khan, tried to break up a row in the bar.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how Trotter stepped in after a row broke out between Mr Khan and an unknown man.

The two men dragged him into the toilets before Trotter head-butted and then punched him, while the other man held him still.

Prosecutor Julie Clemitson said: "Trotter head-butted Mr Khan, the other man took hold of him and the defendant punched him several times to the face.

"Since the attack, Mr Khan suffers anguish because it occurred in his bar and he worries about customers since that day."

Mr Khan suffered cuts and bruises but did not need hospital treatment.

Trotter, of Newlands View, Crook, denied the attack but was found guilty by a jury at Durham Crown Court last month.

Defence barrister John Temple told the court Trotter felt "deep remorse".

Judge Denis Orde sentenced Trotter to a combination order of two years' probation and 100 hours' community service. He was also ordered to pay £500 compensation and £500 costs.

Judge Orde described the attack as savage and cowardly and warned Trotter that any breach of the order, or any further attacks, would result in jail