AN attacker said to have left his victim permanently scarred in a "vicious assault" has been allowed to spend Christmas with his family - but was warned not to drink.

Adam Broadley, 26, gouged the eyes of Stephen Wilkinson and bit his nose, Burnley Crown Court heard. He has admitted assaulting Mr Wilkinson, causing him actual bodily harm.

The defendant, of The Paddock, Oswaldtwistle, will be sentenced in the new year.

Recorder Anthony Cross, QC, said in his view a custodial sentence was inevitable but all sentencing options would be open.

He told Broadley:"If you have any sense you will stay out of licensed premises and not drink. If you commit an offence you will be punished separately and any sentence will be on top of whatever you are going to get "I am giving you some time with your family and putting you on trust."