A 35-year-old man has been cleared of attacking his neighbour with a garden spade in a row over loud music.

Colin Gilbert was found not guilty of wounding Dominic Gilmartin with intent to do grievous bodily harm, after a three-day trial at Burnley Crown Court.

Gilbert, of Broadway Place, Barrowford, who had denied the charge, was discharged from the dock by Judge Lesley Newton.

The jury had heard claims Mr Gilbert hit Mr Gilmartin over the head with a spade after the alleged victim turned up on his doorstep to complain about loud music.

The defendant was then alleged to have grappled with Mr Gilmartin as their two wives tried to stop the melee.

Mr Gilmartin was said to have suffered a head wound and an ambulance and the police were called.

Gilbert was arrested and told the police when his neighbour had arrived at his home he had been aggressive and he had acted in self defence.