A DRUNKEN dad who smashed a teenager's cheek in a street attack walked free from court.

Paul Magee, 19, reacted after hearing claims that victim Mark Logan, 18, had groped a 15-year-old girl and asked for sex at a New Year party.

Five days later he repeatedly struck Mr Logan, who knew nothing about the beating until waking up in hospital.

A witness said she saw the victim's face "splitting" in the onslaught, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Magee, of William Street, Colne, admitted grievous bodily harm and was given a 52-week jail term, suspended for two years, with 200 hours unpaid work. He must also pay £500 compensation and £200 costs.

Sarah Statham, prosecuting, who had now returned to his native Newcastle, went to a house party in Colne on December 31, was extremely drunk and may have made advances to some young women. Magee was quite upset about it.

Bob Elias, defending, said Magee had felt a sense of outrage at the victim's alleged poor behaviour.