learn to control his temper after being handed a nine month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

Craig N. Astwood, 31, of North Court Avenue, had denied unlawfully wounding Brian Oatley, 33, with intent to do grievous bodily harm and unlawfully doing grievous bodily harm.

A 12-member Supreme Court jury yesterday acquitted him of the first charge but found him guilty of the second.

Oatley had told the court that on March 23 he and Astwood were working as groundsmen at the Mid Ocean Golf Club when Astwood beat him three times with a hoe.

The incident occurred after Oatley claimed to have accidentally dumped soil out of the tractor he was operating, while Astwood was sifting at the front of the machine.

After the verdict, Astwood said: "I was convinced that he (Oakley) meant to do what he did. I didn't want to hurt him. I stopped when I realised what I was doing.

"I'm very sorry for what I did. I have lost my job and my income.'' Lawyer for the accused, Mr. Archie Warner said: "The jury has rejected the defence of provocation. He clearly admitted to reacting after losing his temper but he also exercised some self-control. He could have struck with the blade side of the tool.'' The Hon. Mr. Justice Ground said: "This was a serious offence. Grievous bodily harm was done using a weapon that is capable of inflicting serious wounds.

"I bear in mind the effects prison has on a man. You were angry and you lost control. You must learn to control the temper that lurks within you.

"This offence merits imprisonment but justice requires that it must be suspended.''