A man who smashed a beer bottle into the head of a peacemaker during an unprovoked attack in Trowbridge has been handed a suspended jail term.

Scott Philips, 22, of Murray Road in the town, was given a six-month suspended sentence at the hearing at Swindon Crown Court on Monday.

Philips drunkenly lashed out at Solomon Toye when he attempted to break up an argument in the Kings Arms, in Castle Street, on July 27, 2012.

Mr Toye was taken to hospital, needing five stitches to his head, following the attack.

When questioned, Philips said he was very drunk and recalled hitting a man with his right hand but denied using a weapon, although the court heard he now accepted he did.

Mike Jeary, defending, said his client had previous convictions for violence and drink was clearly a problem, but had a glowing reference from his employers.

Philips has two previous convictions for common assault, as well as for grievous bodily harm, a public order offence, assaulting a police officer and causing criminal damage.

He pleaded guilty to a charge of unlawful wounding and was also ordered to pay £300 in compensation to his victim and carry out 140 hours of community service.