CHRISTIAAN BRIGGS, 30, knocked Leeson unconscious after getting off a London bus following an argument on 22 June (06). The singer had just performed to a sell-out crowd at the Barfly venue in Camden.

New Zealander Briggs, who was once part of a human shield in Iraq, pleaded guilty to a charge of grievous bodily harm at Snaresbrook Crown Court last month (SEP06) and was sentenced yesterday (23OCT06).

Judge PETER BIRTS told him, "This lashing out by people against strangers is a blight on our civilisation."

Leeson was left critically ill and in a coma after hitting his head, but has since left hospital. His band split last month (SEP06).

Source: WENN