An Isle of Wight man has been jailed after he shoved a pint glass into a pub-goer's face in an unprovoked assault which caused the victim to lose their sense of smell.
Robert Church, 37, of no fixed address, appeared at the IW Crown Court on Friday, June 5.
He pleaded guilty to assault occasioning grievous bodily harm.
Prosecuting, Richard Bendall told the court the incident took place on November 15, 2025, at The Tap pub in Sandown.
Church was drinking and talking to others, court heard, and his victim was standing nearby - but there was no interaction between them.
The victim returned to stand with his group, and noted Church kept looking over.
Church approached, punched him and 'drove a pint glass into his face', court heard.
Church then left the pub, Mr Bendall said. He said the attack seemed to be out of the blue as he did not know the victim.
Court heard Church's victim had suffered fractures in his face and lost his ability to smell.
The victim had to take time off work and may have lost an estimated £80,000 in income due to being self-employed.
In a statement, the victim said they had lost confidence, goes out less and refuses to travel home alone due to the attack.
Mr Bendall told the court Church has 30 previous convictions and was on licence from a 30 month custodial sentence imposed on March 8, 2024.
Defending, John Lucas told the court Church was 'completely remorseful' and had a severe alcohol problem which has driven his 'to-ing and fro-ing pattern of offending'.
Mr Lucas said Church has a history of mental health difficulties which is problematic with the mix of alcohol.
Sentencing, Judge David Melville called Church's offence 'astonishing' and reiterated that his victim's suffering continues.
Judge Melville said Church's alcohol use induces a 'propensity for unprovoked impulsive violence' and told him he would have to 'get a grip' with his drinking.
He handed Church a two year custodial sentence.
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