A jealous thug, who launched an unprovoked assault on another man in a Watford bar, has escaped a prison sentence despite admitting grievous bodily harm.

Edward Arthur, from Hemel Hempstead, launched the attack after he saw the man talking to a girl he knew.

The victim suffered a broken cheekbone and two fractured fingers, that later required surgery, when he was punched twice by Arthur, on December 20, last year.

At St Albans Crown Court on Friday, Arthur, from Hemel Hempstead, admitted a charge of causing grievous bodily harm.

Following his arrest for the attack, Arthur was found to be in possession of 26 wraps of cocaine.

As a result, he faced a further charge of possessing a Class A drug with intent to supply.

David Chrimes, prosecuting, told the court police had also found a dealers list.

Judge John Plumstead sentenced Arthur to 12 months in jail, suspended for two years, and ordered him to perform 100 hours of unpaid work.

He was also told he must pay £800 compensation to the young man he punched in the bar.