Court sentences anger assaulted local pair

Three men received sentences that were criticised by the victims of an unprovoked assault that shocked Audlem earlier this year. Appearing in South Cheshire Magistrates Court following assaults on two gay men in June, Ian Crutchley, 20, and Michael Poole, 19, received four-month suspended sentences after admitting threatening behaviour and assault. They were ordered to pay £1,173 in costs and compensation. Gavin Shaw, 19, received 100 hours community service and had to pay £100 in costs and compensation after admitting threatening behaviour.

One of the assaulted men, Scott Austin said: "If they keep their noses clean for a year they'll walk away scott free. That's just unfair when we are still suffering."

Scott, of Shavington, received a gashed eye and cuts and bruises to his legs and jaw in the attack while Oliver Whitlock of Audlem suffered haemorrhaging to his right eye, a clipped tooth and a broken nose. Both praised Audlem villagers for the overwhelming support they have received.

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