A FATHER-of-two attacked his ex-partner in a row over child care and when police went to his house they found a "cannabis factory" in his wardrobe.

Burnley magistrates heard how John-Paul Rowan, 30, also assaulted his former girlfriend's friend before chasing Emma Dransfield across the road, hitting her and kicking her while she was on the ground.

Rowan admitted assault causing actual bodily harm, assault by beating and cultivating cannabis, on September 2.

The defendant, of Gisburn Street, Barnoldswick, was given a 12-month community order with supervision and 150 hours unpaid work. He must also pay £100 compensation and £75 costs.

Bill Maude, prosecuting, said Rowan claimed Miss Dransfield, 29, was not looking after their children properly. She went out with her friend Mary King for the evening and left the youngsters with a babysitter. The defendant turned up at the pub she was at, subjected her to a tirade of abuse and demanded she go home immediately.

Mr Maude said Rowan would say the victim "back-handed" him in the mouth in the altercation. Miss Dransfield returned to her home with Miss King.

The defendant was waiting outside in a car and after an argument, Miss King was assaulted and went to the ground.

Miss Dransfield suffered facial injuries and went to hospital where she was found to have bruises and swelling to her face, head and shoulder and was prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory tablets.

Mr Maude said when police went to Rowan's address, they discovered more than 20 cannabis plants growing in a wardrobe, with screens, heating, light and water.

Graeme Parkinson, defending, said although Rowan had previous convictions, he had changed his ways and accepted he behaved badly.