AN ex-convict who slashed a man's face in front of shoppers and children in Colne town centre was today starting a five year jail term.

And as Graham Farrer, 47, was led away from the dock at Burnley Crown Court, a judge commended two police officers for their bravery in confronting him in what she described as "a dangerous situation."

Judge Lesley Newton asked her comments be passed on to Colne based Detective Constables Andy Eddleston and Dean Holden and went on: "This was a man who was carrying a knife that he had previously used."

Farrer, of Bath Street, Colne, had earlier admitted wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and possessing amphetamine, last June 15.

Sentencing, the judge said the assault had a "squalid background," but took place in the middle of town.

Victim Leon Horsfall suffered a 10cm wound and although the scar was now fading, he would carry it with him for the rest of his days.

Judge Newton added the defendant had previous convictions for possessing an offensive weapon and violence and he had a history of mental health problems related to amphetamine use.

Roger Green, prosecuting, said Mr Horsfall knew the defendant and it was agreed Farrer would supply Mr Horsfall with some amphetamine.

Farrer said it would be alright for the victim to call at his home and "help himself." Mr Horsfall went straight to the defendant's home and took four ounces of the drug from the fridge.

That was more than Farrer had intended and he was very upset about it. Three days later, the victim was leaving a Colne amusement arcade with his girlfriend and child.

The defendant got hold of him by his neck, and inflicted a wound on the left hand side of his face.

Tim Ashmole, defending, said the victim was no angel.