A MAN who left a night clubber almost half-blinded in an early hours ‘glassing’ has walked free from court.

Victim Mark Steer, 23, suffered an extensive perforation to his right eye, had two operations, and may yet face a corneal graft, after he suffered the “accidental” injury at the hands of Sean Towers, in The Attic Bar, in Accrington, last October 9.

Mr Steer, an apprentice engineer, would only know after a year if he had permanently lost the sight in his eye, or whether further surgery could restore it, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Towers, said to have an “important” job and who has never been in trouble before, claimed his friend had been involved in an altercation with Mr Steer and he had lunged towards them, without realising he had a short glass in his hand.

The glass broke, gashing the victim, but he had not intended to hurt him.

The defendant, 23, of Devonshire Street, Accrington, admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm.

He was given nine months in prison, suspended for a year, with 180 hours unpaid work, and must pay £1,500 compensation within 12 months.

For Towers, Adrian Williams described the case as unusual and urged the court to pass a suspended sentence.

The defendant had a significant job with prospects and could pay compensation.