Anthony Parry, 18, was jailed for two-and-a-half years at Northampton Crown Court after he admitted striking Kieran Docherty twice over the head during an argument outside a taxi rank.

The victim's injuries were so serious he could not eat solid food for five months and lost two-and-a-half stone in weight.

Sentencing Parry for grievous bodily harm with intent, Judge Richard Bray said: "This was a nasty attack which you were involved in. The victim suffered a serious fracture and was unable to eat properly for five months.

"My prime consideration is not for you but the victim. There must be a substantial sentence."

The fight started on April 21 last year after Mr Docherty allegedly pushed a door towards Parry and stubbed his fingers while both were drinking with friends at a club in Corby.

Parry's group approached Mr Docherty's group outside the club, where the victim was also struck with a knuckle-duster by a different attacker.

Parry, whose bail address is in Eskdale Avenue, Corby, struck Mr Docherty from behind on the right side of the jaw, causing the victim to stagger and bleed from the mouth.

After Parry punched him a second time, Mr Docherty sat on the kerb, before losing consciousness and being taken to hospital.

The victim had huge swelling to the right side of his face and was unable to open his mouth. As a result he had to eat soft foods, could not drink from a cup and instead used a straw.

Defending Parry, Steven Evans said: "He wasn't the one wearing the knuckle duster.

"He has a close family and they do not condone his behaviour and find it difficult to understand."

Parry's mother, father, sister and girlfriend wept as the verdict was read out.