Ricky Petruska, of Hawthorn Walk, Eastfield, was found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent following a three-day trial at York Crown Court.

Petruska, a father-of-three, threw sulphuric acid, believed to be from a battery, in the face of Mark Stubbings, 32, of Beech Walk, Eastfield.

The jury delivered its unanimous verdict after more than two-and-a-half hours of deliberations.

Petruska’s mother, who was present throughout the trial, cried as she saw her son being taken away.

Judge John Bullimore told Petruska he will receive a substantial sentence due to the seriousness of the crime.

Mr Stubbings suffered severe burns to his face and needed surgery on his left eye and ear following the attack in December last year in Sweetbecks Close, Eastfield.

The incident took place after a punch-up in the street between Mr Stubbings and another man, Ben Howard.

On the day of the attack, Mr Stubbings wanted a confrontation with Mr Howard, who he believed was seeing his former girlfriend, leading to a fight breaking out between the pair, which was watched by several people including Petruska.

Mr Howard ran off and Mr Stubbings followed him. It was then Petruska jumped out from the side of a car and threw the acid.

Mr Stubbings said he saw Petruska throw the acid as he stood only a few yards away from him.

He said he could not breathe when he was hit and could not see.

He was taken to Scarborough Hospital before being transferred to Pinderfields Hospital’s burns unit in Wakefield, and is still receiving treatment for his injuries.

His clothes were examined after the attack and sulphuric acid residue was found as well as several burn holes in his clothing.

Mr Stubbings also claims Petruska sent him a text message after the attack and on another occasion threatened him saying he would do it again.

Petruska was remanded in custody to be sentenced in the week beginning October 6.