A MAN was headbutted outside a city centre takeaway, following a conversation with the attacker's ex-girlfriend.

Frank Crocker, aged 20, from Worcester, pleaded guilty to assaulting Guy Sweeney, in Angel Street, Worcester.

Mr Sweeney was talking to the defendant’s former partner, who he knew from high school, after leaving Shakeeys kebab shop.

Nicola Ritchie, prosecuting, said: "Mr Sweeney saw the defendant walk towards them, shouting 'do you know her' as he approached.

"He didn't respond as he could tell the defendant was agitated. Without warning he then headbutted him.

"It caused his nose to bleed. The defendant shouted at him and was pulled away, he was held back by friends."

Police arrived and arrested Crocker, of Dent Close, Worcester, and the victim went to Malvern Community Hospital.

The court heard that Crocker's memory of the night was blurry.

Ms Ritchie said the defendant had been drinking at home with friends, consuming three quarters of a bottle of vodka, mixed with Red Bull and Sambuca shots.

She added: "He does remember walking to Shakeeys. He knew the female involved, he had been in a relationship with her previously. He does not remember assaulting the victim."

Mr Sweeney had a bruised and swollen nose after the attack and he is now scared to go into town, the court heard.

However, a probation worker said Crocker had been under the care of the local authority from the age of nine, although he moved into a flat when he turned 18.

They added: "His childhood was quite difficult. He moved from care placements over the years.

"He appears to be a very pleasant young man in conversation with him. He has some support from his family and his most recent foster parents."

Mark Turnbull, defending, said Crocker was ashamed and embarrassed about the affair and had drunk 'an awful lot' while celebrating a friend's birthday.

He added: "He does not like to be considered as someone who goes around headbutting people for no reason whatsoever.

"As a result of this he's going to try and stay away from alcohol full-stop."

Crocker used to work as a self-employed labourer, although he was forced onto benefits after falling into rent arrears due to a lack of business.

He has two previous cautions, one for battery from 2010 and another for assault occasioning actual bodily harm from 2013.

The defendant also has convictions for possessing cannabis and a blade, although he was under 16 at the time of these offences.

Mr Sweeney was attacked at around 4.30am on July 14.

Worcester Magistrates Court told Crocker to complete 30 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 30 hours at a senior attendance centre.

The court also ordered the defendant to pay an £85 victim surcharge, £185 in costs and £100 in compensation.