A DRINKER who "smacked" and injured a man during a fight at a Rawtenstall pub has been jailed for nine months.

Burnley Crown Court heard Andrew John Andrew, 23, lost his temper, smashed a pool cue and chased victim Simon Anderton out of the Sun Inn. Andrew, who was on prison licence, then punched him.

Mr Anderton was left seriously hurt but it was likely third person was responsible for most of his injuries, the court heard.

Sentencing, Judge Anthony Russell QC, said: "This sort of fighting is all too common and in my view merits a custodial sentence."

Andrew, of Hall Carr Road, Rawtenstall, admitted assault causing actual bodily harm. He was given six months in custody but must first serve the three unexpired on his last sentence.

Richard Hunt, defending, said Mr Anderton had admitted he was in some way the author of his own misfortune by incurring Andrew's wrath - but not for one moment did he say Mr Anderton deserved the treatment he got.