A THUG who left a man eating through a straw for weeks has been ordered to complete unpaid work.

John Stanley floored Leonard Joseph during a row in West Street, Brighton, in June.

The 31-year-old electrician appeared at Hove Crown Court after he admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

Mr Joseph suffered a broken jaw.

Previously at Brighton Magistrates’ Court Suzanne Soros, prosecuting, said Stanley was accused of putting his hands towards another woman’s face, causing her to react.

Mr Joseph’s girlfriend then reportedly confronted Stanley over the incident, prompting Mr Joseph to hold her back and move her away.

But he was punched in the face, leaving him reeling.

Mr Joseph said: “The pain at the time was excruciating.

“I was off work for a week and not able to eat solids for six weeks. The incident has affected my whole life.

“I have to think twice about going out to Brighton and my family were very upset.

“Doctors told me the damage could have damaged the nerves and I might lose the capacity to taste for the rest of my life.

“It is life-changing. I hope the person who inflicted this on me will be held accountable for his actions.”

Stanley, of Chafford Hundred, Essex, was sentenced to 160 hours of unpaid community service and five rehabilitation days.