A MAN who punched a victim so hard at the Dorset County Show that he needed facial reconstruction surgery has been jailed for two years.

Simon Jeff, aged 38, of Poundbury Crescent, Dorchester, denied grievous bodily harm in an incident which happened last September.

During trial at Dorchester Crown Court in February, a jury heard how Jeff and the victim, Timothy Milsom, had been trading insults at the show and afterwards Mr Milsom was punched 'extremely hard' to the face by a man, causing him to fall to the floor.

The victim then underwent facial reconstruction surgery, which included the insertion of six titanium plates to 'rebuild his face'.

Giving evidence, Mr Milsom said: “The next thing I knew I was choking on my own blood.”

Also giving evidence, Jeff said Mr Milsom 'aggressively' approached him so he was scared. He said he pushed Mr Milson backwards with his right hand, but denied punching him.

Jeff said it was his cousin who executed the punch, but would not give his cousin's name.

The jury heard how Jeff handed himself in to police the following day, and during police interview he told of a 'family feud' between his family and Mr Milsom.

At the trial, the jury took two hours to deliver a majority verdict that Jeff was guilty.

Sentencing for the case was adjourned to Bournemouth Crown Court, where Jeff was handed two years imprisonment.

Speaking after the sentencing, Inspector Steve Marsh of Dorset Police told the Echo: “This was a violent and unprovoked attack that took place in front of families with young children.

“It was the first serious incident to occur at the show for many years and shocked everyone who works hard each year to make it a safe and successful event.

“The injuries were so serious that the outcome could have been worse if the victim had not received such prompt medical attention at the time.

“The offender showed complete disregard for his actions and no doubt felt that he would not be brought to justice.

“Hard work from the investigation team and willing witnesses ensured that a conviction was obtained.

“The prison sentence reflects the nature of the offence and ensures that this violent offender is, for the time being, unable to commit further such offences in our local area.”