A LATE- night incident in Blackburn town centre ended with a man being taken to hospital with extensive injuries to his face, a court was told.

But Blackburn magistrates heard the version of events related by an officer who witnessed the incident and that given by both the assailant and his victim were worlds apart.

The court ordered a special hearing when evidence will be given to establish exactly what happened to Simon Coupe early in a Sunday morning in February.

Peter Douglas Brown, 27, of Willows Lane, Accrington, admitted using threatening behaviour. He was remanded on bail until May 31 when the evidence will be heard.

Teresa Feeley, prosecuting, said an officer had seen Brown chasing Mr Coupe along Mincing Lane. As he crossed King Street, Mr Coupe stumbled and Brown caught up with him.

"He ran up and with great force and aggression kicked Mr Coupe in the face and head," said Miss Feeley.

"Mr Coupe attempted to move but was kicked again in a similar fashion. He somehow managed to get to the pavement but he was followed by Brown and the attack continued.

"Mr Coupe was lying on the floor and Brown continued a violent and vicious assault with blows to his head," she said.

"The officer says there was no doubt that Brown wanted to cause as much damage as he could."

Kevin Preston, defending, said Brown pleaded guilty on the basis of a version of events totally dissimilar to the prosecution outline.

"Having heard the prosecution case you may be surprised that my client was not charged with assault," said Mr Preston.