A THIEF who attacked a store security officer after going on a "bender" was sent to prison for 30 days.

Burnley magistrates heard how Kieran John Furlong, 25, punched his victim in the face several times, leaving him with a smashed nose, bruising and swelling and distorted vision. He also suffered damaged nerves and had to undergo surgery. Furlong, of Rifle Street, Haslingden, admitted two charges of theft and one of assault with intent to resist arrest.

The court heard the defendant helped himself to two bottles of Jack Daniels from different stores on the same day and attacked the officer as he tried to escape.

Janet Sime, defending, said Furlong had found himself homeless. He had gone out on a "bender" on the fourth anniversary of his father's death, had been very drunk and could not recollect any of the offences.

He was shocked by it and ashamed by what he had done. He had started full-time work before the offences and had no need to do what he did.