William White jailed for pub brawl murder bid in Fife

A man who left another man close to death after a pub brawl has been jailed for eight years.

William White, 30, attacked Ronald Ward at the Wellesley Inn pub in Methil, Fife, on 27 January 2014.

The High Court in Edinburgh heard how White beat Mr Ward repeatedly, leaving him permanently disfigured.

White, a prisoner of HMP Perth, was found guilty of attempted murder last month and sentence was deferred for background reports.

On Friday, judge Lady Scott told White: "Your victim sustained numerous fractures to the base of his skull, face and eye sockets. This was a prolonged and very violent attack causing severe injuries."

Defence solicitor advocate Gordon Martin told the court White had been born into a travelling family.

He had been drinking excessively on the night of the assault and he realised he was facing a substantial prison sentence.

Passing sentence, Lady Scott ordered White to be supervised by the authorities for three years following his release from jail.

She said White had suddenly and for no reason, viciously attacked his victim.

She added: "You have never have provided any explanation and you refused to co-operate in the preparation of a background report."