Man Spared Jail After Headbutting Female Wetherspoons Manager In The Nose 27246026

Man spared jail after headbutting female Wetherspoons manager in the nose

Elizabeth Martin 6 March 2026

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Man spared jail after headbutting female Wetherspoons manager in the nose

A video of the incident required JavaScript to be enabled, and a browser supporting HTML5 video was needed for full playback.

Leon Wimsett, 24, from Herne Bay, Kent, was found guilty of assaulting a female Wetherspoons manager at The Peter Cushing pub in Whitstable. The court decided against a custodial sentence, opting for fines and costs totaling £739.

Details of the altercation

The court was informed that Wimsett believed he had left his phone charging behind the bar, despite staff confirming they do not provide such service for customers. His frustration escalated after a prior fight in the pub, leading to the headbutt incident.

“At around 10:45pm, there had been a fight. Included in this group was the man who later assaulted me,” the manager stated. “After being told to leave, this male returned. He appeared agitated, insisting his phone was on charge behind the bar. We had not done that, but he kept saying he would call the police. He then headbutted me, hitting me in the nose.”

Witnesses identified Wimsett as the attacker, prompting police to respond. The prosecutor highlighted that the assault was a deliberate act, emphasizing the force used and the manager’s reaction, including audible signs of distress.

Background and sentence

Mr. Sweeney noted Wimsett had a “proven history of violence,” citing two previous common assault cases. The court also learned he had consumed cocaine and alcohol during the event, and expressed remorse for his actions.

“I don’t think he’s seen the video. I don’t think he remembers what happened,” his defense lawyer said. “But I described it to him, and he winced. He’s embarrassed and ashamed. He recognises his responsibility and his shame.”

The judge remarked that the footage had shocked him and his colleagues. Wimsett received a suspended sentence for the assault and was ordered to pay £739 in fines and costs, including £500 compensation to the manager. A restraining order was also imposed, preventing him from visiting the pub again.

As he exited the courtroom, Wimsett thanked the bench for avoiding jail time, promising: “You won’t see me again, I promise you.”