Attack knocked disabled man out of wheelchair

A MAN who knocked a disabled man out of his wheelchair in a vicious attack after a row in a pub has been ordered to carry out 190 hours of community service

David Bowman, 36, repeatedly kicked Martin Hall – who only has one leg – on the head, leaving him with a fracture to his cheekbone.

Sheriff Kathrine Mackie yesterday told Bowman: "This is, as I think you are well aware, a very serious matter. Any assault which involves kicking to the head is potentially extremely dangerous."

She warned Bowman he could have faced jail for the attack and ordered he pay 750 compensation to his victim.

But the sheriff said she took into account there had been an element of provocation, that Bowman had a relatively unblemished record and was in stable employment.

Bowman, of Cochrina Place, Rosewell, admitted carrying out the assault on 6 May last year at Dundas Street, Bonnyrigg, Midlothian.

Defence agent Stephen Mannifield said Bowman had kicked Mr Hall to the head twice and when he realised what he had done he helped him back into his wheelchair.