Trouble flared in McDonalds in King Street, South Shields, on the day
Newcastle United played Sunderland on April 20.

During the fracas Scott Pearson, 22, had his ear bitten off by Dean Watt, 32, who had been drinking all day while watching the game.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how the severed flesh was found by paramedics at the scene, and has been implanted inside Mr Pearson's body in the hope it can eventually be re-attached.

Prosecutor Robert Woodcock told the court how violence broke out in the
fast food restaurant between a number of men.

Mr Woodcock said: "Dean Watt admitted putting his mouth around the left ear of Mr Pearson, but he said unfortunately for Mr Pearson he tore his head away, leaving the ear in his mouth."

Mr Pearson was treated by surgeons at Durham University Hospital, but his prognosis is unknown.

The severed ear must remain inside his body for four months in the hope it will develop restorative tissue which will allow it to be re-attached.

Watt, of Trinity Walk, South Shields, admitted unlawful wounding:Judge Guy Whitburn jailed him for 21 months.

The judge said: "Quite clearly when you are sober you are a good family
man, you work and you are pleasant to your neighbours.

"But when you are drunk at a derby as you were on this occasion, you are a danger to those with whom you come into contact."

Defence barrister Robert Adams said Watt became involved in the violence
after he saw his brother Wayne being outnumbered and knocked to the ground during the brawl.

Wayne Watt, 28, of Fort Square, South Shields, admitted affray and was
jailed for nine months for his part in the violence.

Both brothers have previous convictions for violence.

Mr Woodcock said more men would have been arrested after the incident had their identities been known.