A man has admitted causing the death of another man after assaulting him outside a village pub.

Mark Stevens, of no fixed abode, was drinking at the Blue Boar Inn pub in Temple Grafton on 24 November last year when he punched William 'Billy' Carney.

The two men went out into the car park, where Stevens was seen to take hold of Mr Carney and then punch him, causing Mr Carney to fall and hit his head on the concrete.

The 31-year-old was taken to hospital where he later died from a bleed to the brain.

An investigation began with officers from Warwickshire Police quickly identifying Stevens as the man who had assaulted Mr Carney.

When questioned by officers after his arrest, he initially provided a statement admitting the assault.

Mark Stevens pleaded guilty to manslaughter at Warwick Crown Court (image via Warwickshire Police)

He was subsequently charged with manslaughter and on Friday (28 July) he pleaded guilty at Warwick Crown Court.

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He is set to be sentenced at the same court on 22 September. 

DCI Teresa McKenna said: “Mark Stevens’s actions have had devastating consequences.

"William’s death in such tragic circumstances has caused untold misery and resulted in many lives being turned upside down.

“Thankfully, incidents of this nature in our communities are rare and although we can’t bring William back, I hope Stevens’ conviction will give a sense of closure to his family and friends after an unbearably difficult time."

The Blue Boar Inn pub in Temple Grafton (image via google.maps)

Last year Mr Carney's family released a statement describing his as a "larger-than-life character" whose personality would "light up any room he would walk into".

"He was the most loving and committed partner, son and brother, and he was a friend to so many," the family said.

"We are overwhelmed and so grateful for all the messages and support we have received. The staff at Warwick Hospital have been amazing, and we can't thank them enough for all they did for our Billy."

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