Attacker had found victim in bed with woman

Ian Redman had struck after finding victim James Taylor in bed with a woman. Redman was later charged with raping the woman but was cleared, the court was told.

Redman was spared jail by Judge Pamela Badley although she said Mr Taylor - who has since died - did not deserve the violence dished out to him.

The judge added that the defendant had suffered consequences as a result of facing the rape allegations and had not previously acted in a violent way.

Judge Badley told Redman he had admitted the offence a long time ago and had had to await sentence until the trial was over. Mr Taylor's death was not related to the incident.

Redman, of Clarence Street, Colne, had earlier admitted assault causing actual bodily harm. He was given a 12-month conditional discharge.

Richard English, defending, said Redman had suffered considerable financial difficulties directly related to the court proceedings.