AN 'ANGRY' voluntary worker who smashed a vulnerable man's face in because, he claimed, his victim owed him £40, has been locked up for four years.

The Burnley victim, who has learning difficulties, was kicked and punched by drunken Kieron Findlay, 24, in a vicious early hours assault on Briercliffe Road, in the town.

He suffered fractures to his nose and jaw and was so badly beaten when a police officer, who had known him for years, arrived, he didn't recognise him, Burnley Crown Court heard.

The victim, who was left with the imprint from the sole of a shoe on his right cheek, needed surgery and the month after the assault still had numbness in his face.

The hearing was told Findlay, who claimed he didn't know his victim had learning difficulties, owned up at the police station.

The defendant, of Cateaton Street, Bury, admitted causing grievous bodily harm with intent last October 26.

Mark Savill, prosecuting, said Findlay was seen kicking the victim's head.

He said: “Mr Findlay seemed to be under the impression the complainant owed him £40. He said he had not seen him for about a year and took the opportunity to ask him about the money and when he might be getting it back.

“It’s fair to say Mr Findlay really didn't excuse his actions in interview and conceded he had had far too much to drink."

“It was a short, extremely unpleasant, vicious assault with fists and feet, for no good reason."

For Findlay, Laura Heywood said the assault was not pre-planned. She said Findlay volunteered for the British Heart Foundation.

Sentencing, Judge Andrew Woolman told the defendant: "I am quite sure that you now regret it.”