A SCHIZOPHRENIC man has been fined £350 after pleading guilty to assault by beating.

James Percival, 26, admitted punching a man after downing six glasses of wine and one beer at the Peacock pub in Gainsborough.

The attack happened outside a property in the town after they had left the pub on February 23, the court heard.

The prosecution told the court how Percival had been drinking with his girlfriend and two other friends before the row broke out.

According to witnesses, Percival was shouting insults before punching the victim "at least 10 times" in the nose, temple and wrist.

Marie Stace for the prosecution said: "The victim suffered a 1cm cut to the bridge of his nose and slight swelling to his wrist. This attack was totally unprovoked."

Psychiatric assessments ordered by the court diagnosed Percival with the mental health problem and he was started on medication.

Magistrates ordered him to pay a £150 fine, £150 in compensation, £35 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.