What started the fatal argument between Liam Slack and Paul Ainscough?

The argument began over chicken wings at the Stag pub in Leyland, Lancashire.

How long was Paul Ainscough in the British Army?

Paul Ainscough served in the British Army for 24 years, achieving the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major.

What was Liam Slack sentenced to for Paul Ainscough's death?

Liam Slack was sentenced to four years and two months in prison for manslaughter.

Home / Crime and Justice / Army Veteran Killed After Pub Garden Chicken Wing Fight

Army Veteran Killed After Pub Garden Chicken Wing Fight

2 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A dispute over chicken wings led to a fatal push.
The victim, a former sergeant major, died from internal injuries.
The assailant received a four-year prison sentence for manslaughter.

Army Veteran Killed After Pub Garden Chicken Wing Fight

A tragic incident at a Leyland pub garden, sparked by a disagreement over chicken wings, has resulted in a manslaughter conviction. Paul Ainscough, a 57-year-old former British Army sergeant major, died two days after being pushed by his friend, Liam Slack, 34, during a drunken argument on June 22.

The altercation began when Slack allegedly grabbed at Ainscough's chicken wings. Witnesses described Slack pushing Ainscough forcefully, causing him to fall and sustain internal injuries. Despite initial appearances, Ainscough developed severe abdominal pain and was later pronounced dead. A post-mortem revealed three broken ribs and fatal internal bleeding.

Slack admitted to the pushing incident and later pleaded guilty to manslaughter. Preston Crown Court sentenced him to four years and two months imprisonment. The judge acknowledged Slack's remorse but highlighted the role of alcohol and the devastating consequences of his actions on a well-regarded veteran.