A MAN headbutted a stranger in a Stockton Heath bar because he was staring at him, a court heard.

David Leather, aged 29, of Causeway Avenue, Latchford, carried out the ‘unprovoked’ attack in the Slug and Lettuce, Grappenhall Road.

Halton Magistrates Court heard on Monday how Leather headbutted victim Jamie Mullen to his nose, causing bruising and swelling.

Sarah Gray, prosecuting, said he was thrown out by door staff and arrested.

The incident happened at 1am on Saturday, April 19.

During the police interview, the court heard Leather said Mr Mullen had barged into him earlier that evening in the Mulberry Tree, London Road.

Then, in the Slug and Lettuce, the victim was ‘smiling and staring’ at him.

“He said the complainant took a step towards him and he felt threatened, and immediately headbutted the complainant,” said Mrs Gray.

“He said he felt ashamed and embarrassed by his actions.”

The court heard Leather owns his own construction business, and is due to be married on June 6.

The defendant, who has no previous convictions, was ‘under stress’ from ‘relationship and family matters’ at the time of the incident.

Magistrates adjourned the hearing for a pre-sentence report to be carried out.