Man admits hitting friend with hammer after argument

McCormick left the man with a wound that needed glueing and stitches

A man who hit his friend in the head with a hammer after an argument has pleaded guilty to a charge of affray.

Paul Anthony McCormick, whose address was given as care of the Isle of Man Prison, admitted the charge in an appearance at Douglas Courthouse.

The court heard McCormick had been drinking with a friend on 24 May when the incident occurred on Albert Road in Ramsey.

Using a hammer obtained from his home, the 35-year-old struck his friend behind the ear, leaving him with a wound that needed glueing and stitches.

The prosecution argued that the matter was too serious to be dealt with in the summary court, highlighting the violent nature of the offence, the use of a weapon and the physical injury.

McCormick's advocate told the court he'd lashed out recklessly rather than deliberately, and was shocked when he hit his friend.

Deputy High Bailiff Rachael Braidwood agreed the case should proceed at Court of General Gaol Delivery, which has greater sentencing powers.

McCormick was remanded in custody until his next appearance on 20 June.