Burglar jailed for attack

A man who attacked former Grand Prix racing driver John Watson during a break-in has been jailed for two years.

Michael McGeown from McAuley Street in the Markets area of Belfast admitted seven charges arising out of a break-in at Mr Watson's parents' home.

John Watson: Was punched and kicked by burglar

He faced two charges of robbery, three charges of assault with intent to rob, one charge of burglary and three charges of false imprisonment. He pleaded guilty to all the charges.

The defendant was convicted of punching and kicking Mr Watson who discovered him as he and another man burgled the house in the Malone area of Belfast.

He was also convicted of falsely imprisoning Mr Watson and two others.

Mr Watson, now a Grand Prix commentator living in England, was not in court in Downpatrick, County Down to see the man being sentenced.

During the trial, he had given evidence in which he described the attack as a "frightening experience".

McGeown was also ordered to spend two years on probation after his release during which time he was to seek help for his alcohol abuse.