A DRUNKEN father-of-four who attacked his wife after coming home in the early hours left her with a bust lip, a court heard.

Noor Alam, 30, punched Sultana Akter in the mouth, causing her immediate pain. Mrs Akter, who was left bleeding, called the police while her husband collapsed in bed intoxicated.

Burnley magistrates were told how the victim was to tell police she had been married to the defendant for 11 years, he had been good to her and nothing like it had happened before, although he had been verbally aggressive.

Alam, who has convictions for damage and drink driving, admitted assault by beating on August 8.

The defendant, of Merton Street, Burnley, was sentenced to a 12 month community order with supervision and 40 hours unpaid work. The bench chairman recommended Alam seek help from Inspire, the drugs and drink service, telling him it would be easier to tackle his alcohol problem with assistance, rather than on his own. The defendant must pay £85 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.