Restraining order for man who injured councillor

Ian Barnes has been sentenced for causing injuries to parish councillor Iain Hall

A man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm on a parish councillor, resulting in a fractured skull.

Taunton Crown Court heard Ian Barnes, 60, became verbally aggressive and pushed parish council chairman Iain Hall during an altercation on 16 April in the Broadway area of Merriott, Somerset.

Mr. Hall fell, hitting his head on the ground, and sustained a fractured skull and a bleed on the brain, requiring several days of hospital treatment.

Barnes was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years.

He was also issued a five-year restraining order, preventing him from entering Merriott until September 2029.

In addition, Barnes was ordered to pay £500 in compensation to Mr. Hall, complete 100 hours of unpaid work, and undergo up to 30 days of rehabilitation activity.

Avon and Somerset Police's local beat manager, PC Barry Gould, said:

"Ian Barnes had been in dispute with the parish council and became aggressive towards Mr. Hall before pushing him to the ground.

"The victim sustained a serious head injury as a result, yet Barnes left the scene before paramedics arrived."

PC Gould added: "The restraining order should provide reassurance not only to Mr. Hall but also to the wider community, as Barnes will not be allowed to enter Merriott.

"Should he breach the conditions set by the court, he faces arrest and a potential custodial sentence."