A KNIFEMAN who caused trouble after turning up at his ex-partner's home, sank his teeth into her new boyfriend.

Burnley Crown Court heard how spurned Richard Guy, 32, had asked to take the dog out, but arrived at 11pm and not 11am, as arranged. Guy, who was partially sighted Julie Smith's registered carer, was drunk and smelled of cannabis. He ended up being pinned down and disarmed by the victim.

The hearing was told how Guy, who confessed to still having feelings for Miss Smith to her partner as they had struggled, had spat in her face the day she dumped him. He was emotional and apologetic over his actions when questioned by police.

The defendant, of Redvers Street, Burnley, had admitted possessing a bladed article, assault causing actual bodily harm and assault by beating.

Guy, who had no previous convictions, was given eight months in prison, suspended for 18 months, with 100 hours unpaid work.