Pensioner punched driver after road rage near Corby supermarket

The incident took place close to the Asda petrol station.

Neil Lamberton, 77, denied assault but was found guilty after a trial earlier this month.

Appearing for sentencing yesterday (Wednesday), Wellingborough Magistrates’ Court heard how the victim, a 72-year-old man, had been shopping at Asda in Phoenix Parkway on July 27 last year.

At about 3pm he left and drove away but as he did he saw a silver car speeding and aimed a hand gesture at the vehicle.

The silver car was being driven by Lamberton. When he got to the petrol station he got out and started banging on the bonnet of the victim’s car.

He then leaned through the driver’s window and punched him twice in the face, cutting his mouth.

Prosecuting, Matthew Thomas said: “He [the victim] was in shock as it was happening.

“He was left stunned and frozen by it.”

Lamberton denied throwing punches and told police officers he acted in self defence after being threatened by the victim.

Defending, Neil Clark said his client didn’t agree with the prosecution’s version of events and claimed he was not well enough to throw a punch.

He said: “Mr Lamberton argues that the victim pulled out before speeding away but that does not explain the throwing of punches.

“He maintains that he is not fit enough to throw a punch and does not know how he was found guilty. He is not a problem to society.”

Chairman of the bench Dr Robin Pugsley sentenced Lamberton, of Woodnewton, to six weeks in prison suspended for a year.

He was also made to pay court costs of £675, compensation of £100 and a victim surcharge of £115.