A CHEF launched an attack on a group of revellers after believing they stole a shot of Apple Sourz.

Bradley Saunders’ argument with the three victim spilled out onto the street, with the 22-year-old throwing coins and threatening them with a key outside Central Bar, on Station Road, New Milton.

Incensed by the dispute over the drink, Saunders ripped off a wing mirror from a nearby car and headbutted betting shop Coral’s front window before running home and grabbing a kitchen knife.

Southampton Crown Court heard that while on his way back to the scene, Saunders realised his actions were wrong and called 101 to ask what he should do with the knife.

Prosecutor Syan Ventom told the court that Saunders and two friends had been drinking and playing pool at Central Bar.

A second group began playing pool on an opposite table, but Saunders’ friends went to drink some shots they had ordered they believed one had been stolen.

An argument ensued, which later went out on the road.

Mr Ventom added: “It could be viewed that there was a risk of serious disorder had the police not been present. There may have been a very different ending.”

By the time Saunders returned, police and ambulance were at the scene.

Lucy Morrell, mitigating, said: “He confessed to the crime before he had carried it out.”

The court heard Saunders suffers from ADHD and anxiety and that he was “remorseful for what he has done.” Miss Morrell added that Saunders had also sent letters of apology to the victims of the criminal damage.

Saunders, of Vincent Road, New Milton, pleaded guilty to affray, two counts of criminal damage and possessing a knife in a public place.

He was given a 24-month community order and ordered to pay £500 compensation.