AN Alresford man has been ordered to get treatment for an alcohol problem after a violent and unprovoked attack on a woman.

Tom Higgs, 22, of Ladycroft, Alresford, assaulted the female, causing actual bodily harm, on April 19, a court heard.

He had initially denied the charge but changed his plea at Basingstoke Magistrates Court.

Magistrates jailed him for 16 weeks but suspended the sentence for 18 months. They ordered him to have an 18-month community order with a six-month alcohol treatment requirement.

The court heard that going in Higgs' favour were the prospects of rehabilitation and his ability to pay £500 compensation to the victim.

Higgs was also ordered to pay a £115 victim surcharge and £250 costs.