A COMPANY executive was challenged to a fight by a drunken stranger as he read a religious book at a bus stop outside Southampton's central library, a court heard.

Norman Rides, 50, had a book entitled Religion Explained when he was approached by Sean Phelan who wanted to know about its contents.

Prosecutor David Jenkins told the city crown court that Phelan became aggressive as the pair talked and challenged Mr Rides to a fight.

He then pushed the victim over, pinned him to the ground and threatened to smash his head in.

The police arrived and Phelan was arrested. He claimed Mr Rides had threatened to punch him and had acted in self defence.

Phelan, 28, of Leyton Road, Northam, was convicted of common assault but acquitted of religious aggravated assault. He was bailed to July 30 for sentence.

6:31am Sunday 6th July 2008

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