Stunned - that’s the verdict of Gills chairman Paul Scally and his family after his son was locked up for two years.

Max Scally turned 18 yesterday, but there was no mood for celebration.

His coming of age was spent contemplating his loss of freedom after being punished for breaking a 15-year-old’s jaw at an end of term party in July, 2007.

Mr Scally was at Maidstone Crown Court for much of his son’s trial and again on Monday to see him being sentenced.

Speaking exclusively to the KM Group, he said the whole family had been left “traumatised” by the judge’s decision.

He said: “The first part of this week has been very difficult for everyone, it’s almost like a bereavement.

“We are very upset and disillusioned with the justice system that has allowed this to happen.

“Anybody who knows the boy, knows the case, and was in court that day, will be stunned at the severity of the sentence.

“[The judge] thinks this is going to teach people a lesson in Kent and thinks he’s got to send a message out to youngsters.

“But frankly, I can’t see what message it sends out at all, because this was just two boys who came together at a party over something and nothing."

Mr Scally confirmed an appeal to overturn the sentence will be lodged.

• Read about the sentencing - Scally son jailed for breaking boy's jaw>>>