A MAN seen by police kicking his partner on the ground was trying to stop her getting arrested, a court heard.

Paul David Jones's victim did not want him prosecuted, Burnley magistrates heard.

The defendant told police she had rowed with a neighbour and he was trying to calm and restrain her. Jones said he kicked her "up the bottom". It was "not like a football kick".

The defendant, of Crabtree Avenue, Waterfoot, admitted assault by beating.

He was given a 12-month conditional discharge by the bench who said the circumstances were unusual. The defendant must pay £65 costs.