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Man jailed for pub killing
01.09.09
A man was jailed for two years today for killing a fellow drinker with one punch after they rowed at a pub.
Ryan Saunders, 29, of Waltham Forest, east London, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Gary Saywell, 46, of Walthamstow, east London.
Painter and decorator Mr Saywell, known as Billy locally because his friends thought he looked like Billy Mitchell from EastEnders, died in February.
The Old Bailey was told there was bad feeling between the men. A row broke out at the Northcote Arms pub in Grove Green Road, Leytonstone, and both men went outside.
During a confrontation, Saunders struck the older man who fell, hitting his head on a car bonnet and the pavement. He suffered a head injury from which he did not recover.
Saunders alleged Mr Saywell goaded him until he struck out. His barrister, Jane Gower, said: "He would do anything to turn the clock back."
Judge David Paget said: "I am well aware that this is a tragic case for all concerned."
