English man's eye smashed in racist attack

Published on Wednesday 18 March 2009 09:06

AN English man's eye socket was shattered in a racist attack, a court has heard.

Nicholas Walker, 23, smashed Simon Maude's left eye after arguing with his victim's girlfriend over a taxi. Mr Maude needed a titanium implant to rebuild his crushed face.

During the attack, Walker, of Stapley Avenue, swore at his victim, saying he was fat and English.

Yesterday at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Walker, an architectural technician, admitted a racially aggravated assault.

Fiscal depute Sally Clark said Mr Maude had been out with his girlfriend, Sarah Wilkinson, on August 17 last year. The couple had booked a taxi to take them home but when it arrived, Walker began arguing with Miss Wilkinson and insulted her. When Mr Maude stepped in to calm the situation down, he was attacked.

Walker admitted arguing with Miss Wilkinson, but he denied the attack was racist. He said he lashed out because he was afraid Mr Maude was about to attack him.

Sheriff Kenneth Maciver deferred sentence to next month. Walker was granted bail.