AN "innocent teenager" was left disfigured after an angry man threw a pint glass in a crowded Rawtenstall pub.

Burnley Crown Court heard the 17-year-old had to have 15 stitches and was scarred for life after being hit full in the face by the glass at Madison Park, last September.

The victim felt self conscious over the three visible scars and sometimes covered her face with her hands as she thought people were looking at her.

Shaun Dunn, 30, who caused the girl's injuries rowing with his girlfriend walked free from court after a judge described the case as "unusual".

The defendant meant the glass to smash on the floor, the court was told.

Recorder Kevin Grice told the defendant he was entirely responsible for the effect the offence had had on the victim's life but he had not meant any harm.

The judge said:"If I had thought for one moment you in any way intended such injury you would now be going to prison and not for a short period of time."

Dunn was given 180 hours community punishment and was told to pay the teenager £200 compensation. The defendant, of Whittle Street, Rawtenstall, had earlier admitted unlawful wounding.

Sean Brodie, prosecuting, said the victim lost a considerable amount of blood and was left scarred on her forehead and nose.

The defendant handed himself at the police station a month later, said he had been attacked by his girlfriend and had thrown a glass he had been holding at the floor. He claimed it bounced back and hit the teenager. Dunn wanted to apologise to the girl.

Stephen Meadowcroft, defending, said the results of Dunn's reckless behaviour were tragic.

He said: "This is a man who didn't intend this.

"He pleaded guilty, is full of remorse and handed himself in. I dont think he could do more."