Family speaks out after life-changing pub attack

The family of a man left with a life-changing brain injury after an unprovoked attack during a night out in Leicestershire have said a "senseless act of violence" changed their lives forever.

Alistair Roome, 47, was headbutted outside a pub in Belvoir Road, Coalville, in April and remains in a specialist brain injury rehabilitation unit five months later.

Kyle Morrissey, 35, of Prestop Drive, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, was sentenced to two years in prison at Leicester Crown Court on Friday after pleading guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

In a statement, Roome's family members said the attack had changed their lives forever.

"Alistair was the victim of an unprovoked assault while enjoying a night out with friends at his local pub," they said.

"In a matter of moments, a senseless act of violence left him with life-threatening and life-changing injuries."

Leicestershire Police said the assault happened outside the pub shortly after 21:30 BST on 25 April.

Roome and Morrissey had briefly spoken at the bar before Roome went outside to join friends.

Morrissey followed him from the pub and headbutted him, police said.

The force of the blow knocked Roome backwards, causing him to hit his head on the ground and lose consciousness.

He underwent emergency surgery and spent a month in intensive care.

The family said the attack had "robbed him of the life he once knew" and left them facing "uncertainty, grief and lasting emotional trauma".

They said: "While we continue to support Alistair through his recovery, we know the effects of this attack will be felt by our family forever.

"The consequences of that single violent act will remain with us for many years to come."

Police said Morrissey left the scene before emergency services arrived but handed himself in two days later.

He was originally charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, but later pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

He will spend two years in prison and is subject to a five-year restraining order.

Det Con Beth McGuinness said: "What happened to Alistair was completely unprovoked and shows just how devastating the consequences of violence can be."

She said Morrissey had indicated to others in the pub before the attack that he wanted to start a fight, and later walked away without showing concern for Roome's welfare.

Roome's family thanked Leicestershire Police and the NHS staff involved in his care for their support and dedication throughout the case.

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