A man has been sentenced to five and a half years in prison for attacking X-Factor winner James Arthur with a pint glass in a Redcar pub. Christopher Revell, 31, admitted wounding with intent at Teesside Crown Court after the assault in August.
The court heard that Revell smashed a glass over the back of Arthur's head and punched him as he stumbled forward. The attack left the singer with a head wound requiring five staples. Prosecutor Nick Dry stated the assault was unprovoked.
Revell, a former cable fitter with 12 previous convictions for violence, claimed he acted because Arthur had slept with his ex-girlfriend. He initially denied using a glass, saying he 'lost it' when Arthur smirked at him.
In a victim impact statement, Arthur said he feared the injuries would affect his music career and felt nervous visiting his hometown. Defence lawyer Andrew Turton said Revell lost his home and job due to the attack.
Sentencing, Judge Tony Briggs noted Revell's difficulty controlling his temper, citing his criminal record. The judge imposed a five-and-a-half-year jail term for the attack.
