A DRUNKEN man who kicked a baby in the head has walked free from court.

Burnley Crown Court heard Christopher Kerr’s actions had been accidental while the baby was on the floor.

The defendant, 26, described as a petty offender, who was looking after the child, was said to have sent a text to the baby’s mother late at night, saying: “Come and get him before I hurt him”.

He had then sent a message to his partner, and when police arrived at her house at 11pm, Kerr was there with the youngster.

The baby, who was in dirty clothes he had been wearing for two days, was upset and tired and the defendant was drunk.

The hearing was told the infant’s grandmother went to collect him and he was taken to hospital.

The defendant, of Richmond Road, Accrrington, had admitted cruelty to a child, in April.

He had 63 previous convictions.

He was given eight weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, with 18 months’ supervision, and an alcohol treatment programme.

His substance misuse will also be addressed.

Mark Stuart, for the defendant, said: “He’s mortified by what he did on that night.”

Mr Stuart said the defendant was working hard to get himself alcohol and drug-free.