A FATHER of four who attacked his partner as their relationship crumbled punched and kicked her, Burnley magistrates heard.

The court was told how Paul Kinnane, 36, who had been drinking, later handed himself into police, co-operated with officers, and had sought help.

Kinnane, a former van driver, of Oak Street, Colne, admitted assault by beating. He was given a 12-month conditional discharge, with £80 compensation and £50 costs.

David Lawson, defending, said Kinnane was anxious to play a part in the upbringing of his children, who were aged between 15 and eight.

He had been concerned about certain aspects of his wife's relationship with them. The defendant and the victim argued, and both parties were throwing insults at each other.

Kinnane expressed concern about the welfare of the youngsters, his wife responded, things took a turn for the worse and the defendant kicked her.

Mr Lawson said Kinnane accepted what he did was wrong, and wanted to apologise. Kinnane went to the police station voluntarily because he knew the police wanted to speak to him.

The solicitor urged the court to take into account that the offence took place against an acrimonious relationship breakdown, and Kinnane had never appeared in court before.