A FATHER-OF-TWO'S novel way of attempting to show his love for his estranged partner brought New Year in with a bang, a court was told.

Burnley magistrates heard Philip Wainman, 23, strapped a firework to the side of his mouth and lit it in an attempt to rekindle their relationship and win her back.

He then thought better of the gesture and flicked the firework away but it fell to the floor, exploded and blew up part of her kitchen.

Wainman, who then kicked an officer when police turned up, did not get his girl but he did get a £500 bill for the damage as well as 180 hours community punishment.

He was also ordered to pay £50 compensation.

The defendant, of Napier Street, Nelson, admitted arson and police assault on January 1.

Andrew Creswell, prosecuting, told the court that the volatile relationship between the defendant and victim ended at the beginning of last year because of him being aggressive and drinking.

Attempts to reconcile were unsuccessful due to the defendant's behaviour.

On New Year's Eve Wainman went round to his ex-partner's home worse the wear for drink in an attempt to rekindle their relationship.

To display his feelings for her, he went into the kitchen and strapped the firework to the side of his mouth and lit it.

After the firework was removed it went on to the kitchen floor, exploded and caused more than £1,000 worth of damage to the fridge freezer and parts of the kitchen.

Mr Creswell said police were called and when they arrived, Wainman was abusive and kicked backwards, catching an officer on the shin.

Richard Taylor, defending, said Wainman had been exceptionally distressed on New Year's Eve.

The relationship with his partner was ending, they had two young children and he had too much to drink. He behaved in an appalling manner.

Mr Taylor went on: "It was out of character. He doesn't remember very much about it.

"Thank goodness he thought better of it or the consequences could have been far worse, especially for him."