A violent thug has been handed an extended sentence after destroying a woman's Christmas by leaving her with permeant facial injuries.

Simon Ormston-Watkinson, of Bro Seiont in Caernarfon, appeared for sentence at Mold Crown Court on Tuesday morning.

The 31-year-old had been convicted after trial of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent on Helen Natasha Owen, which took place on December 19, 2021.

John Wyn Williams, prosecuting, told the court the defendant had gone to a party at the victim's friend's home on that date.

And under the influence of drink, he used a "karate-style kick" against Ms Owen, causing "nasty and permanent injuries to her mouth and teeth."

In a statement read to the court, the victim said her Christmas that year was "destroyed."

In the time which has followed, her confidence has been impacted - as has her work as a circus firebreather, which the court heard she could not continue due to the nature of the injuries.

Mr Wyn Williams said Ormston-Watkinson has a previous conviction for GBH with intent, which was also committed against a woman, as well as battery against his sister and her partner.

He said the defendant had been assessed as "a high risk to partners and women."

Dafydd Roberts, defending, said: "Clearly, under the influence of drugs, Simon Ormston-Watkinson is a violent man. There's no escaping that.

North Wales Chronicle: Simon Ormston-Watkinson (North Wales Police)Simon Ormston-Watkinson (North Wales Police) (Image: NWP)

"In the times I've represented him, he's been quiet, polite and respectful. But clearly there's another side to him.

"He has realised he needs to do something about this and he knows he will be going to prison for a long time."

Mr Roberts said his client, a dad-of-two, wished to apologise to the victim and the court.

He had been diagnosed with ADHD at 14, Mr Roberts explained, and had "struggled with his behaviour since."

Judge Nicola Saffman told Ormston-Watkinson: "This has had a heart-breaking effect on [Ms Owen].

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"She has permanent nerve damage, it's affected her sleep and confidence - and she can now no longer carry out her occupation fire breathing in the circus."

The Judge reached the conclusion that a standard determinate sentence would not be sufficient given the defendant's history of violence and the seriousness of the present offence.

She handed down an extended sentence of ten years - made up of six years custody and a four year extended licence period.

He must serve two-thirds of the custodial element before the parole board decides whether he can be released on licence.

The Judge also imposed a 10 year restraining order to protect the victim.