A MAN from Tavistock has been given a suspended prison sentence for stamping on the head of a stranger as he curled up into a ball to protect himself.

Plymouth Magistrates' Court heard that John Toms was seen by police to lift his foot three feet from the floor before bringing it down on the victim.

District judge Paul Farmer gave the 22-year-old a 12-week jail term, suspending it for 12 months because of his previous good character. Toms must also carry out 120 hours of unpaid work.

The judge added: 'In terms of cases coming before this court, cowards using their feet to attack a man vulnerable through drink on the ground — that is the worst possible scenario.'

The court heard that Toms would lose his chance to join the Army for the year that the sentence runs.

Toms, of Trinity Way admitted common assault on the man on October 10.

Michael French, for the Crown Prosecution Service, said the victim was himself agitated and hit the wall of the Roundabout pub in Drake Circus at about 5.20am.

He said Toms punched him repeatedly to the face, then kneed him in the ribs several times.

He added that the victim curled up on the ground but Toms was seen to stamp on his head and upper body.

The court heard that the victim was left with a cut ear and a swollen and reddened forehead.

Jodie Baker, for Toms, said he had been accepted into the Army as a chef and was due to start basic training this month.

But she said his place was on hold for the 12 months of the suspended sentence.

Miss Baker added that Toms himself was upset, had been separated from his friends on a night out and thought the victim's agitated behaviour was directed towards him, but accepts that he over-reacted.

Miss Baker said: 'He is apologetic and this was totally out of character.'

Toms must also pay £150 compensation to the victim and prosecution costs of £85.