A MAN has been jailed after assaulting Pioneer editor Phil Robinson.
Stephen Rees launched an attack on Mr Robinson outside the newspaper's office on Whitby Road, Ellesmere Port.
Rees, 47, of Bebington Road, was jailed for a total of three months by Chester, Ellesmere Port & Neston magistrates on Friday.
Prosecuting, Peter Hussey outlined the case against Rees by reading Mr Robinson's statement to police.
Mr Robinson and news editor Chris Smith had been working in the Pioneer office on Monday, November 15, at 4pm when they both saw Rees searching their bin outside.
They watched as Rees then walked across their car park, picked up a stone and threw it at a car belonging to Wendy Thomas, who worked at Orrell's Opticians next-door.
Then, while Miss Thomas, Mr Robinson and Mr Smith were inspecting the damaged car, Rees returned and assaulted Mr Robinson, hitting him in the face below his eyes.
While Mr Robinson called the police, Rees advanced on Mr Smith and intimidated him. Amazingly, Rees then gave the group his correct name and address before leaving.
He was initially due before the court on Friday, November 19, but failed to attend.
A warrant was issued for his arrest.
He was picked up on this last week and appeared in court on Friday, where he pleaded guilty to assault, criminal damage and failing to surrender.
Court clerk David Hargreaves said Rees was jailed for two months for the assault and one for the damage, to run together, and a further month for not surrendering.
Rees must also pay Mr Robinson £100 compensation and £50 to Miss Thomas. There was no order for costs.
Speaking after the case, Mr Smith said: 'This was an un-pleasant incident for us and Miss Thomas.
'I thank the police and magistrates for administering swift justice. It sends out a message that assaults on innocent members of the public will not be tolerated.'
