AN HGV driver, who offered an alleged assault victim cash, wasn't jailed -- even though a judge slammed his actions as 'stupid.'

Burnley Crown Court heard how the complainant had not been put in fear by Duane Haythornthwaite's actions, thought nothing of it and did not mention it to police until discussions some months later at the magistrates court.

Sentencing, Judge Barbara Watson said such offences were always regarded as very serious, as they undermined the whole system of criminal justice.

She added, however, the defendant did not threaten the complainant, did not offer violence and had, in fact, advised him to go and see a solicitor.

Judge Watson said the offence was very much at the bottom end of the scale of its type.

Haythornthwaite, 29, of Fountain Street, Nelson, was convicted of attempting to pervert the course of justice. He had 11 previous convictions. He was given 200 hours community punishment.

Philip Holden, defending, said the offence arose out of an assault committed in drink and Haythornthwaite had put his dishonesty offences behind him and was in a settled job.