Racehorse trainer Evan Williams faces potential jail time after being convicted of assaulting a 72-year-old dog walker with a hockey stick. The 54-year-old attacked Martin Dandridge on his land in Llancarfan, Vale of Glamorgan, on December 4, 2024, leaving him with a fractured arm. A jury at Cardiff Crown Court took just 90 minutes to find Williams guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

During the trial, the court heard that Dandridge was walking his cockerpoo Gulliver near Williams' racehorse training center when the incident occurred. Williams claimed he believed Dandridge was lamping - using bright lights to hunt animals - due to previous problems with fly-grazing, hare coursing, and poaching on his property. The defense argued Williams was trying to protect his land.

The judge has adjourned sentencing until April 14 to allow for pre-sentence reports. Williams, who was due to have runners at the Cheltenham Festival this week, was granted conditional bail. The court heard he needs time to arrange alternative management for his racing business should he be imprisoned. Williams maintains his innocence, claiming Dandridge's injuries resulted from falling into a drainage hole while being pulled by his dog.