A MAN "bottled" another man in a dispute over a £50 bet for shinning up a drainpipe, a court heard.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Paul King was attacked by Samual Handforth, 20, in a late night incident in Kelbrook.

It came after Handforth had been referred to the mental health team over his temper and never attended.

But Handforth kept his freedom and was told by a judge: "Count yourself lucky."

Handforth struck after his father had suffered a stroke and he was facing the responsibility of helping him run his business, the court was told.

Handforth, who had never been in trouble before, was given 51 weeks in jail, supended for two years, with 100 hours unpaid work and £500 compensation.

The defendant, of Valley Road, Barnoldswick, had admitted unlawful wounding and had been committed for sentence by Burnley magistrates. He had no previous convictions.

Sentencing, Recorder Neville Biddle told Handforth he was prepared to give him a chance, with some reluctance.

The judge, who had read references on Handforth's behalf, said it was more by chance than good fortune Mr King was not more seriously injured. The defendant had expressed remorse to police as soon as he could.

Recorder Biddle said in the past Handforth had sought medical help, had been given drugs and had been referred to the mental health team for assessment but did not go.

The judge went on: "Had you attended it may be that you might not find youself in this position."