Rock singer claims head butt was in self-defence

THE lead singer of rock band The Zutons told a jury that he broke a man's nose because he was intimidated and frightened that he would be attacked himself.

Dave McCabe, 29, head butted student Peter Appleby, 23, during an alcohol-fuelled row outside a nightclub, Liverpool Crown Court has heard.

McCabe, who wrote the hit song Valerie, which was covered by Amy Winehouse and Mark Ronson, says that he acted in self-defence after one of Mr Appleby's friends mocked his girlfriend's fur-collared coat - saying that it looked like she had a beard.

Giving evidence yesterday, McCabe talked the jury of five women and six men through CCTV footage of the early-hours incident outside Liverpool's trendy Korova bar on Sunday February 21 this year.

Cross-examined by Ben Morris, prosecuting, McCabe admitted he had drunk wine and beer but said: "I didn't want a fight. I was looking after my girlfriend.

"I would rather talk my way out of the situation."

He said he head butted Mr Appleby because he felt he "didn't have time" to raise his own arms for protection.

Giving evidence yesterday, Mr Appleby denied he moved his arms to punch McCabe and said he and his friends had not intended to upset the couple.

The student told the jury he had consumed six pints of Guinness during the night and admitted he was drunk.

The trial continues.