THE Police Federation has hit out at a judge after a carpenter walked free from court, despite ruining an officer's career in an assault.

Kevin Dunn, 45, was said to have "flipped" and smashed Nelson PC Mark Brooks against a stone wall and a pillar in a holding cell after being arrested on the suspicion of drink driving.

PC Brooks, who has almost 20 years of service, tore a hip ligament and the injury is so severe that it is unlikely he will ever return to full duties, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Recorder Philip Butler defended his decision to give Dunn, of Wood Green, Leyland, a year in jail, suspended for two years.

He said that Dunn was "not the man he was a year ago" and was capable of keeping out of trouble, despite him having a previous conviction for police assault.

But Steve Edwards, chairman of the Lancashire Police Federation criticised the punishment.

He said: "The sentence handed out by the judge is hardly a deterrent to stop people challenging authority.

"Police officers deserve the protection of the law and it seems on this occasion the sentence has not afforded that protection.

"The courts need to send a clear message out assaulting a police officer is not acceptable."

David Macro, prosecuting, told the court about 11.30pm, PC Brooks went to Scotland Road, Nelson, to breath test a driver.

Dunn appeared drunk and gave a roadside reading of 127 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath - the legal limit is 35.

He was arrested and taken to Burnley custody office where he was put in a holding cell and had his handcuffs were removed.

Dunn asked for a cigarette and was told smoking was not allowed and he suddenly lunged at the officer with his fists, the court heard.

A violent struggle followed and PC Brooks was spun around, hitting the stone walls with his arms and shoulders, Mr Macro said.

He said PC Brooks would not be able to run again and the chances were he would not return again to normal duties.

PC Brooks, 39, had to have 11 months off work and now faced further surgery to prevent permanent damage.

Andrew Howe, defending, said Dunn was "extremely sorry" and wished to apologise to the officer.

Dunn was also sentenced to 80 hours unpaid work and a six-month curfew, every day between 8pm and 7am. He must also pay £500 compensation after admitting inflicting grievous bodily harm.