A ex-solider who turned to drink and crime after horrific experiences in Iraq is to be helped confront his troubles by the British Legion.

Former squaddie Mark Matthews, had earlier been given an eight month jail term, suspended for two years,with a curfew, after admitting a wounding allegation following a "fight."

The 21 year old, who had removed his tag, had started having problems when he got home from war and had offended after his discharge from the army.

The defendant, who could have ended up behind bars for the eight months, was instead given supervision which will be organised through the British Legion.

The defendant, a father to be, of Chatham Street, Colne, admitted breaching the suspended term.

Judge Simon Newell told the defendant he had caused unpleasant injuries in a nasty assault in August last year.

He added Matthews had been "sailing very close to the wind," had not co-operated with the order and it was not for him to tell the courts what to do.

Philip Holden, defending, said problems started when Matthews returned from a tour of duty in Iraq. He had had very little assistance and that had led him to drinking more than was good for him.