A MAN has been jailed for manslaughter after he punched a fellow pub-goer unconscious outside a pub two years ago.

Liam McKane, aged 54, punched 51-year-old Colin Leslie once in the head outside the Kingsbridge pub in Bourton-on-the-Water on Saturday, August 28, 2021.

The pair had been involved in a disagreement inside the pub before McKane approached Mr Leslie outside and punched him.

He subsequently fell backwards and hit his head on the floor.

Paramedics attended and treated Mr Leslie in a bid to save his life before he was taken to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford with suspected head injuries. 

Mr Leslie died in hospital from his injuries on September 5 2021, eight days after the incident.

McKane, of Uxbridge in London, was subsequently arrested and later charged with manslaughter.

He pleaded guilty to the charge during the first day of a trial on June 26 this year.

McKane appeared at Bristol Crown Court for sentencing today (Friday, August 11) and was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison.

Detective inspector Adam Stacey, from the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: "Mr Leslie's death was utterly needless and as a result of McKane's mindless actions which had fatal consequences.

"A single punch has caused a devastating impact, resulting in a man losing his life and a family left without their loved one.

"No outcome will ever bring Colin back and our thoughts and condolences remain with his partner, friends and family."

In sentencing remarks His Honour Judge Picton said: "Colin Leslie was a much loved family man whose life you brought to an end.

“Nothing that happened either inside or outside The Kingsbridge Inn that night justified what you did to bring about this tragic state of affairs. 

"His family and friends have been left devastated by their loss.

"You ruined the lives of so many people by your actions on this night – those who will forever grieve for the loss of a loved one and those members of your own family who will suffer as a consequence of you being sent to prison.

"What happened in this case should be a lesson for others about the terrible consequences that can result from the use of violence, which is sadly seen all too frequently when people are out trying to enjoy themselves at night."

Leslie's family issued a previous tribute which said: "Colin was a dearly loved son, father, brother, partner and uncle.

"Colin was always a happy guy who was well known to everyone and who touched so many lives.

"We as a family are absolutely heartbroken that he has been tragically taken from us like this. 

"Our lives without Colin will never be the same again."