Man jailed for 'despicable' attack on market trader

Tyrone Rowe was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court on Friday

A man who assaulted a 71-year-old market trader following an argument over a phone charger has been jailed for three years.

The victim was working on his Hyson Green market stall in Nottingham when Tyrone Rowe asked to test a charger at a bookmaker across the road.

Nottinghamshire Police said this led to an argument, with Rowe becoming "agitated and aggressive" before punching the trader in the face.

The 41-year-old walked off but returned a short time later and punched the trader again, causing him to fall and hit his head on the concrete.

The victim was taken to hospital after the attack on 19 June and was found to have suffered fractures to both sides of his face, with his cheek bones and eye sockets shattered.

Rowe, of Southey Street, Radford, was arrested the same day and told officers he punched the victim in self-defence following the argument.

However, the force said evidence "clearly showed" he was the aggressor.

He was subsequently charged and later pleaded guilty to the offence of grievous bodily harm without intent.

'Disgusting actions'

He was jailed at Nottingham Crown Court on Friday and given an extended licence period for two years.

Police said the victim's health had deteriorated since the assault and he no longer felt able to work on his stall.

Shreeia Patel, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: "This was a despicable unprovoked attack on a market trader which left him with serious facial injuries.

"I'm glad Rowe has now been held to account for his disgusting actions."