Yes, ol is quite correct. This gentleman was charged with ABH which is an "either way" offence. The decsion where to try or sentence the defendant in such matters rests initially with Magistrates and it seems likely that it was they who determined that the matter was too serious for them to handle. So the stupid Magistrates almost certainly sent the matter to the Crown Court expecting the sensible Recorder to hand down a stiff sentence. So let's give credit where it's due.