Yob escapes jail term over umbrella attack

A THUG who repeatedly struck a friend with an umbrella because he ignored him while out shopping has been warned to behave or face jail.

Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court heard how Anthony Golden, of Frances Street, Oldham, caused a 2in gash to the head of his victim near the Spindles shopping centre on July 8.

Golden (45) had shouted over to the man about some money which he claimed was owed. However, the man ignored him.

Golden then followed his victim before repeatedly hitting him over the head with an umbrella. He only stopped when members of the public intervened.

Andrea Lock, prosecuting, said: “The complainant has been described as very upset.”

The court heard how the two have since put their differences behind them.

Adam Lodge, defending, said: “Since the incident, the defendant has seen the complainant again and it appears to be water off a duck’s back.”

Golden was sentenced to 48 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months with a 12-month supervision order after pleading guilty to wounding.

He will also be on curfew for four months between 7am and 7pm.

Judge Leslie Hull told Golden: “He ignored you — so you hit out with an umbrella. It is for this kind of street violence that a custodial sentence should be imposed. But I accept the mitigation on your part.

“If you breach the order, you will be brought back to court and re-sentenced.”