A BLACKBURN car mechanic told a court how the drunken best man "beat the living daylights" out of him at a wedding celebration.

Barrister Christopher Dunn made a disgusting speech and exposed himself before launching a "savage" attack on fellow guest David Baird-Dean after being confronted over his behaviour, the court heard.

The 40-year-old is alleged to have attacked the man after the church ceremony of his friends Russell and Rosalind Poole, who were renewing their vows after ten years.

After completing his duties Dunn, who had been drinking all day, became more and more abusive towards guests at the reception party, a Preston Crown Court jury was told.

He is alleged to have unzipped his trousers and exposed himself to guests.

Richard Haworth, prosecuting, said the incident was witnessed by several youngsters, including Mrs Poole's attendants.

He had misjudged his audience, said Mr Haworth. All the guests who witnessed his performance, during a reception at Harefield Hall Hotel, Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, in July last year, took offence, he said.

Dunn then allegedly launched a savage attack on Mr Baird-Dean, punching him to the floor then sitting on his chest and repeatedly punching his face. Mr Baird-Dean suffered a fractured cheek, jaw and eye socket.

Mr Baird-Dean said: "It was like being electrocuted. I fell to the ground.

"I remember him turning me over on my back. He pinned my arms back with his knees and knelt on top of me. He beat the living daylights out of me.

"I could not believe another human being could do that to somebody for no reason.

"I felt like I was going to die there and then. I could not breathe easily, blood was running down the back of my neck and I was choking."

The victim went on to have reconstructive surgery to his face, with the insertion of plates and screws. He had not been able to work as a mechanic since, had short term memory loss and his eyesight was not 100 per cent, the court was told.

Under cross-examination from Paul Greaney, defending, he said his own conduct at all times had been responsible and blameless.

He said he had not punched or struck any blow to Dunn and neither had he pulled him away in a violent and aggressive manner.

Dunn, of Morley, Leeds, denies a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He claims he was acting in self defence.

He also denied an alternative charge of inflicting grievous bodily harm.

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