A BONFIRE party led to violence when a man later turned up at a house and smashed his niece's estranged husband's jaw, a jury heard.

Roger Atkinson, 55, allegedly headbutted victim David Loughlin, knocking him to the floor, stamped on his face and then put the boot in several times.

Mr Loughlin was seriously injured and had to have an operation to wire up a double fracture, Burnley Crown Court heard. Atkinson, of Blaschemy Square, Colne, denies causing grievous bodily harm with intent, last November.

Mark Lamberty, prosecuting, said Mr Loughlin had been married to the defendant's niece Jane but the couple had separated.

Mr Loughlin had been to a bonfire party and became quite drunk. Atkinson was also there and was drinking beer.

The defendant made a remark to the alleged victim, although nothing particularly untoward, and about midnight Mr Loughlin was given a lift home to Nelson.

The party broke up and Atkinson went to Mr Loughlin's brother's address.

He seemed anxious to know where the complainant was living and after calling at another address found out where Mr Loughlin's house was in Nelson.

Mr Loughlin had arrived home about 12.30am and a short time later the defendant turned up and knocked at the door.

Mr Lamberty said Atkinson then walked straight into the living room and butted Mr Loughlin in the face, knocking him over some furniture and onto the floor.

He then stamped on Mr Loughlin's face and kicked him between eight and 10 times in the body and head.

(Proceeding)