Man headbutts bus driver in Peacehaven for failing to stop

A man admitted headbutting a bus driver who failed to stop for him, Brighton Magistrates’ Court was told yesterday (Thursday 3 November).

Peter Didcote also admitted kicking the side of John Day’s head.

Didcote, 46, pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily arm but disputed some of the claims made before District Judge Stephen Nicholls.

The attack happened on Monday 12 September at the Meridian Centre in Peacehaven.

The prosecutor said that Didcote, of Balcombe Road, Peacehaven, also punched Mr Day in front of another driver and a bus engineer.

Didcote, who represented himself, denied throwing any punches and said that he headbutted Mr Day in self-defence.

He said: “I did assault the bus driver. I do not deny that. But some of the circumstances in his account is totally wrong.

“I do regret what I’ve done to be here standing in front of you today.

“There was no punch thrown. I admit a kick to the side of his head and a headbutt.”

The judge released Didcote on unconditional bail until Friday 20 January when a “Newton hearing” would be held to decide the disputed evidence.

The court was told that Didcote was not eligible for legal aid and could not afford a solicitor.

The judge appointed duty solicitor Hollie Collinge to undertake cross-examination for him at the trial of issues.

JP

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