A MACHYNLLETH businessman has pleaded guilty to assault after he hit an employee on the head with a broom.

Geoffrey Hill, 55, of Llys Awen, Derwenlas, appeared before Dolgellau magistrates on Thursday, where he pleaded guilty to assaulting his employee, Guy Walker.

Magistrates heard the assault took place at one of Hill’s businesses, Roustabout Ltd, at Frongoch Boatyard in Aberdyfi on 7 August.

The court was told that an argument escalated, Hill grabbed a broom and struck the victim on his head.

Mr Walker suffered a head injury and a deep cut to his hand.

Hill also suffered an injury to his face, when Mr Walker punched him, he says to stop him attacking him further.

Defence solicitor, Paul Inns, said this incident would “inevitably tarnish Mr Hill’s reputation in the community”.

“Mr Hill regrets his actions that day, it happened in the heat of the moment and he regrets striking Mr Walker with the broom,” he added.

Magistrates handed Hill a 12-month community order which requires him to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work.

He was also ordered to pay Mr Walker £200 compensation as well as £295 court costs.