A YOB who pulled a pensioner from his bicycle and beat him up leaving him badly injured has walked free from court.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Connor Wood, 20, had launched himself at popular and sprightly Arthur "Archie" Jones, 67.

He had to be pulled off him by members of the public as he set about the victim, punching him repeatedly outside The Glory pub in Loveclough, in the early hours, last July.

Mr Jones, who was fit and active had smashed ribs and a collapsed lung but could recall nothing of the unprovoked and attack as he made his way home from Loveclough Working Men's Club.

A passer-by, who knew Mr Jones, reported how the victim was bleeding from his ear and was in shock but refused offers of help.

He was later taken to hospital as he fought to breathe, had a drain inserted in his chest and was kept in 10 days. The court was told how Mr Jones's beating had caused anger in the local community.

The defendant later told police if he had not been dragged off the victim he would have carried on hitting him.

Wood, of York Street, Crawshawbooth, had earlier admitted causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He had no previous convictions.

He sobbed in the dock as Judge Stephen Dodds told him he was going to shock him by not sending him to jail- although he rather suspected almost every other judge in the county would.

The judge said he accepted Wood's conduct had been "outrageously out of character," for him and added he had been just persuaded to give him a chance.

The defendant was given 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, with 200 hours unpaid work.

Prosecuting, Silvia Dacre said Mr Jones had been on his weekly visit to Loveclough WMC, had about four pints and was cycling home about 1am.

Wood claimed he felt he had been struck in the face as he tied his shoelaces, decided cyclist was responsible and had not realised it was an elderly man.