A driver hit a father with an iron bar in front of his victim's children in a violent road rage attack.

Robert Ball lost his temper when Thomas Appleby tried to cross the road with his wife and children in front of the 20-year-old’s car.

Lewes Crown Court was told violence flared in Hampden Park, Eastbourne, on April 1 as Mr Appleby and his family were crossing Brassey Parade.

Gail Purdy, prosecuting, said as the family started to cross the road Ball, who was driving past, slammed on his brakes and started shouting.

She said: "There was an exchange of unpleasantries."

Ball drove away but moments later Mr Appleby heard a shout behind him.

Ms Purdy said: "Mr Appleby turned round and saw the defendant running towards him. In his hand, raised to shoulder height, was a tyre iron.

"He was shouting and swearing and swung the tyre iron."

Ms Purdy said Ball hit Mr Appleby on the arm before running away.

His victim did not suffer any lasting injuries from the attack.

Ms Purdy said a number of members of the public saw what happened and were alarmed at the aggression shown.

Julian Dale, defending, said Ball was currently seeking help from a psychologist. He said: "He is a vulnerable young many in many ways."

Ball, of Wannock Avenue, Willingdon, Eastbourne, admitted assault and was sentenced to 28 days in jail suspended for two years.

He was also ordered to abide by a night-time curfew for three months.

Judge Michael Lawson told Ball he needed to learn how to curb his temper.

He said: "It is not acceptable behaviour. People who behave like that in cars can cause huge damage."