A FATHER of three who headbutted another driver in a "road rage" attack has walked free from court.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Carl Stott, 33, lost his temper after it was said his victim caused him to brake sharply.

His two younger children were in the car and one of them shot forward - neither was wearing a seat belt - and the defendant then chased the other driver and set about him before the pair scuffled and ended up in some bushes.

Stott was given a two-year community rehabilitation order by Recorder David Brunnen who said the defendant had "teetered on the brink" of jail, but Stott's circumstances, including his more settled family life, allowed a non-custodial sentence.

The judge added he did not accept the defendant had been concerned for his children as it would have been better to check they were all right and make sure they wore seat belts rather then pursue the complainant.

Scott, of Lydia Street, Accrington, had admitted assault causing actual bodily harm and had been committed for sentence by the Hyndburn Magistrates. He must also pay £500 compensation.

Neil Standage, prosecuting, said a BMW driven by the victim nearly had a collision with a car being driven by the defendant.

Scott turned his vehicle around and followed the other driver, overtook him on a bend, pulled sharply in front of him and caused him to brake. Both men got out, words were exchanged and the defendant suddenly headbutted the victim on the bridge of his nose and hit him in the face.

A scuffle broke out, the pair landed in some bushes and Scott hit the other driver several more times, leaving him with cuts and bruises. A third person separated them and the defendant got in his car and drove off.

Ken Hind, defending, said he appreciated the court's first reaction would be consider prison, but it could step back and consider whether it was necessary and appropriate for custody to be imposed.