A DIMINUTIVE nightclub doorman who claimed he usually deals with rowdy customers with diplomacy not force, has admitted attacking a man in the street with a baton.

The assault, Hereford Crown Court was told, happened at 2am on February 24 last year outside a pizza shop in New Road, Kidderminster.

Kevin Yarranton, aged 33, of Old Ford Walk, Walshes Estate, Stourport, who pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm, was said to have thought his victim was about to attack him. Yarranton, who had no previous convictions, was remanded on bail for a pre-sentence report.

William Rickarby, prosecuting, said the victim, James White, suffered extensive injuries to all parts of his body.

Altercation

The attack followed an altercation and was initially denied by Yarranton although he was picked out on an identity parade.

Michael Aspinall, defending, said that Yarranton was only 5ft 3in tall whereas his victim was more than a foot taller.

Normally, Yarranton acted with "diplomacy and aplomb" in his duties as a nightclub doorman.

He added that Yarranton, who had recently taken responsibility for two young children, was remorseful and wished to be sentenced.

Bur Recorder David Tucker said he did not envisage a financial penalty as a street attack with a weapon often resulted in custody. He called for a report from the probation service.