THE landlord of a Gwent pub was cleared yesterday of allegations that he attacked two customers during New Year's Eve celebrations.

David Evans, 48, landlord of the Upper Cock Inn, Croesyceiliog, was found not guilty of wounding Carl Thomas by a jury at Cardiff crown court. On the direction of Judge David Morris, he was also found not guilty of common assault on Joanne Lewis.

His son, Sion Evans, 23, of the same address, was found guilty by a majority verdict of ten to one of causing actual bodily harm to Richard Lewis.

On the direction of the judge, Sion Evans was found not guilty of wounding Mr Thomas and not guilty of inflicting grievous bodily harm on Mr Lewis. Prosecutor Bernard Powell had told the court that violence broke out in the pub on New Year's Eve.

David Evans told the jury that people began fighting in the lounge and he got between them to stop it. Door staff also intervened.

He said: "I went between people who were fighting. Carl Thomas was shouting 'I'm a police officer, I'll get you all done'."

David Evans added: "I didn't punch anyone, I'm positive about that. "I didn't punch Carl Thomas anywhere or assault him in any way, there was no physical contact."

Outside, near the car park, scuffles occurred and a police officer, he said, approached him and told him the pub was going to be closed down. David Evans said he was not drunk and admitted he swore at a police officer because of his attitude towards him.

Sion Evans was not called to give evidence. His sentencing was adjourned and he was remanded in custody.