New Year punch killed father, 47

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A man who punched and killed his girlfriend's father during a New Year row has been jailed for three-and-a-half years.

Daniel Lynch, from Risca, near Newport, admitted the manslaughter of Gary Middleton, who died three months later.

Mr Middleton, 47, went to help his daughter Sarah when she was arguing with Lynch, 25, an hour after midnight.

Cardiff Crown Court heard that Mr Middleton, also from Risca, hit his head on the kerb and died in March.

Michael Mather-Lees, prosecuting, told the court that Lynch had drunk lager and vodka and "had a considerable amount to drink".

"Sarah and Lynch had an exchange. He slapped her and she threw a bottle of beer at him."

The court heard that Mr Middleton then arrived back at his home to see the row in the street outside.

Daniel Lynch felt regret and remorse for what happened, the court heard

Mr Mather-Lees said: "On arrival Lynch was shouting and swearing at Sarah - he said to her: 'I will kill you'.

"The two men grabbed each other but no blows were thrown. They were shouting at each other."

The court heard that Lynch then lashed out with his fist after other people joined in the row.

Mr Mather-Lees said: "Lynch punched Mr Middleton to the head with his clenched fist, that was seen by his two daughters.

"A single hard blow that caused him to fall backwards and he hit his head on the kerb with catastrophic consequences."

Mr Middleton suffered a bleed to the brain and was immediately paralysed. He died in hospital on 9 March.

Peter Murphy QC, defending Lynch, said: "He feels genuine regret and remorse."

Judge Mr Justice Davis KT said: "It's quite clear Gary Middleton was not trying to involve himself at all with you when you punched him.

'Most horrendous' year

"He had no chance to defend himself and you had no right to punch him, he was a bystander."

After the case, a spokesman for the Middleton family said: "Today we have had some sort of justice, however we as a family will always suffer a life sentence.

"Our dear Gary, a loving son, husband, father and friend will be missed by those who knew and loved him every day.

"This year has been the most horrendous of our lives and we could not have coped without the support and comfort we have received from everyone."