VILLAGERS have rallied to the support of two gay friends after an attack in Audlem.
The incident outside the Shroppie Fly pub in the summer left Scott Austin, 26, of Shavington, with a gashed left eye and cuts and bruises to his legs and jaw.
His friend, Oliver Whitlock, 34, of Audlem suffered haemorrhaging to his right eye, a chipped tooth and a broken nose.
Three men appeared at South Cheshire Magistrates Court in connection with the incident on June 4.
Ian Crutchley, 20, of Festival Avenue, Buerton and Michael Poole, 19, of Gemmell Close, Crewe received a four-month custodial sentence, suspended, after admitting threatening behaviour and assault. They were ordered to pay £1,173 in costs and compensation.
Gavin Shaw, 19, of Festival Avenue, Buerton received 100 hours community service and had to pay £110 in costs and compensation after admitting threatening behaviour.
Stuart Flood, defending, said alcohol had played its part.
Bentley worker Mr Austin said: 'If they keep their noses clean for a year they'll walk away scott free. That's just so unfair when we are still suffering. On top of our injuries we were very badly shaken. I've had counselling and while I still go to the pub, if I see a group of lads I steer clear.'
Mr Whitlock, a duty manager at Legends Social Club in Crewe, said: 'Everyone in the village knows we are gay and it's no big deal. They have shown us overwhelming support.'
