A CORWEN man was jailed after admitting an 'inexplicable' attack on another person with a wooden bat.

Robert Lewis, aged 53 and of Maes Afallen estate in Corwen, appeared at Mold Crown Court on Thursday where he admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm against Neil Marshall on April 12 last year.

Prosecutor Michael Whitty told the court that prior to the attack Mr Marshall, of Sun Terrace in Glyndyfrdwy, had spoken to the daughter of Lewis over an exchange she'd had with Mr Marshall's niece.

This was the motivation for what followed, Mr Whitty said.

On April 12 Mr Marshall was visited by Lewis who, with part of his face covered with a scarf and with little warning, began to attack him with a wooden bat similar to one used by rounders players.

Mr Marshall retreated into his home and tried to fend off the attack, but Lewis continued to strike at him.

The court heard how Mr Marshall began to fear he would not only lose his breath during the confrontation - as he has Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) - but that he would lose the ability to see clearly as his blood soaked his face and ran into his eyes.

Mr Marshall then managed to strike Lewis with an ashtray twice, causing him to relent and then shortly afterwards run from the property.

He was later identified and arrested.

Michael Whitty told the hearing that Mr Marshall has since relocated and is concerned about coming into contact with Lewis again.

Matthew Corbett-Jones, defending, said Lewis was "broken" by his remorse at doing something so irresponsible.

He explained: "When he went to the house he was incensed. The 'red mist' had descended.

"He had believed the complainant had treated his daughter in the most appealing manner.

"But that does not excuse or justify his conduct.

"He is profoundly remorseful for taking matters into his own hands and is ashamed to see the photos of the injuries.

"Prison will be a tough environment on him - it will impact on his ability to work in the future and on maintaining his home."

Judge Niclas Parry told Lewis his actions had been completely out of character as he has no previous convictions and a reference from his employer had spoken of his 'exemplary' work record and ethic.

He said: "Your conduct was as inexplicable as it was serious."

The judge sentenced Lewis to two years in custody, half of which will be served on licence. He also ordered Lewis to pay a surcharge of £140.