A man making his way home after a night out with friends in Longridge was butted in the face and then punched to the floor by a complete stranger.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Derek David Makinson later admitted to police he had drunk about nine double vodka and Cokes.

And District Judge Peter Ward said there were far too many unprovoked attacks which were fuelled by drink.

"I see you are in receipt of working tax credits, that is not a drinking tax credit for you to go out and spend on nine double vodkas," he added.

Makinson, 19, of Glenview Close, Ribbleton, Preston, pleaded guilty to assaulting Alexander Hartley.

He was fined £200 and ordered to pay £250 compensation and £80 costs.

Andrew Robinson, prosecuting, said Mr Hartley was making his way home along Berry Lane when he and his friends were approached by three males.

There was a verbal exchange before Makinson came face to face with Mr Hartley and then butted him.

Mr Hartley was punched to the floor but managed to regain his feet and punched Makinson to the floor.