A CLARETS fan was attacked with CS gas after rival groups of soccer supporters "squared up and began fighting".

Burnley Crown Court heard how Grimsby fan James Goodwin sprayed the gas into the face of Stephen Hayhurst.

Mechanical fitter Goodwin, of Isaacs Hill, Cleethorpes, escaped jail after a judge sent him to custody while he pondered what to do with him.

Giving him 180 hours community service, Recorder Leonard Portnoy said football violence was being viewed with great seriousness by the courts and even the Prime Minister had given his views on what ought to happen.

However, he added that Goodwin, a regular football supporter, had no convictions and he could take a merciful view.

The judge told him: "Reflect on the last hour or two behind bars and think about a year or two in that position." Goodwin admitted causing a noxious thing to be administered with intent on March 17. He was also ordered to pay £340 costs.

Jeremy Grout-Smith, prosecuting, said the offence took place after the match between Burnley and Grimsby.

Mr Hayhurst's immediate reaction was to cover his face with his hands.

Goodwin walked calmly away with others into a nearby street where a member of public pointed him out to police.

Mark Savill, defending, said Goodwin had not intended to cause violence and had been "extremely foolish".

Goodwin had led a creditable life and had not been in trouble in the past.

Custody would have a devastating effect upon him and he was a healthy young man, available to do community service.

Mr Savill said Goodwin was at very little risk of offending in the future. He went on: "Would public benefit be served by sending him to custody? The public would be satisfied that this young man had been dealt with by a hefty community service order being placed upon him."

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