A YOB who hit a man over the head with a scaffold pole is starting a four-year jail sentence.

John Milligan, 24, attacked Richard Tyson, causing a wound that needed seven stitches.

Milligan then attacked Catherine Wheeler, who was having a disagreement with his partner, Winchester Crown Court heard.

Milligan, of Beech Crescent, Hythe, admitted wounding with intent and common assault on January 20 this year in Stanmore, Winchester.

He also admitted stealing a mobile phone from a flat in Rumbridge Street, Totton, on May 28 last year.

Simon Edwards, prosecuting, said that Milligan had a bad criminal record, with 26 previous court appearances.

Michael Selfe, mitigating, said: "He had not intended to hurt Mr Tyson. He picked up the pole on impulse and hit him on impulse."

Milligan accepted that he must go to prison, said Mr Selfe, who added that Milligan's partner is standing by him.