"Cowardly and disgraceful" thug pleads guilty to head stomp attack

A judge described a Tameside thug as “cowardly and disgraceful” after he stamped on a man’s head during Saturday’s violence in Piccadilly Gardens.

Anthony Livesey, 31, of Moorfield Avenue in Denton pleaded guilty to violent disorder at Salford and Manchester Magistrates’ Court this morning. 

According to prosecutor, Hannah Nicholls, Livesey – who has previous convictions for domestic abuse, including battery and controlling behaviour - was “antagonising” mounted police officers and counter-protesters while chanting, swearing, and holding two beer bottles. 

He then climbed over barriers with a gang of other men, who began attacking a black man, a video of which appeared on Twitter/X after being filmed by a member of the group. 

The defendant swung a punch during the melee, and after the victim had been dragged to the ground, Livesey stamped on his head. 

“I have worked in criminal justice for nearly 30 years, and I am not often lost for words but this offence that was committed by you and your friends is one of the most cowardly and disgraceful cases I have ever experienced,” said District Judge Lucy Hogarth. 

“I am absolutely stunned and shocked by you and your friends’ behaviour.” 

Livesey’s solicitor didn’t apply for bail, with Judge Hogarth remanding him in custody until his next appearance on Friday, August 16 at Manchester Crown Court.