A CHEF lost his sense of smell as a result of a random attack while walking home after watching a televised football match.

The victim was making his way through Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, after viewing a Sunderland v Newcastle derby game with friends at a pub, in August 2011.

Durham Crown Court heard he passed a group of young men, including Gordon Ian Stephenson, who was angry at damage caused to his sister’s parked car.

Liam O’Brien, prosecuting, said Stephenson shouted something and the off-duty chef turned to hear what he was saying.

Stephenson then walked up to him, head-butted him in the nose and punched him in the face.

As the victim went to the ground, Stephenson followed with two further punches.

Although Stephenson initially claimed he struck out thinking the other man was “squaring up to him”, the court heard he now accepts the prosecution version of events.

Mr O’Brien said the victim was left with multiple fractures in the nose which has been operated on several times to try to correct the deviation, which has not proved wholly successful.

He was also left unable to smell and suffering breathing difficulties.

Mr O’Brien said long-term prognosis has recently confirmed he has lost the sense of smell permanently.

“This is a serious problem because of his work as a chef.

“Colleagues where he now works are aware of his problem and can help, but he fears it would create difficulties if he ever had to look for another job in the restaurant trade.”

Stephenson, 28, formerly of Pelton Fell, but now of Cumberland Place, Barley Mow, near Chester-le-Street, admitted unlawful wounding.

Stuart Graham, mitigating, said Stephenson suffers a life-long genetic disorder, as well as psychological problems.

Mr Graham said the treatment Stephenson receives for the disorder involves him taking testosterone which brings “highs and lows”.

It causes him to lapse from being more aggressive, sometimes finding it hard to maintain his self-control, to being depressed.

Recorder Jonathan Aitken told Stephenson: “This is a really serious offence.

“That man was doing nothing wrong and was merely in the wrong place at the wrong time.

“But, now, he is suffering long-term consequences, all because you lost your temper.”

Recorder Aitken imposed an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for a year, during which Stephenson will be subject to probation supervision.

He must also perform 150-hours’ unpaid work, observe a three-month 7pm to 7am home curfew and pay his victim £300 compensation.