A VICAR working with homeless people witnessed a man punching a woman in the stomach outside his church.

Blackburn magistrates heard the female had a seven-year-old child with her when she was assaulted and was left with blood on her face and hands.

John Lomax, 42, of Washington Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to assaulting Leatrice Leonard. He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison suspended for 12 months, a 12 month community order with 20 days rehabilitation activity requirement and told to pay £50 compensation.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said Ian Enticott was working in the church when he became aware of a disturbance.

Gareth Price, defending, said Lomax and his partner had been to the pub and an argument had developed.

"The vicar saw a single punch to the stomach of the complainant and she did not make a statement to the police," said Mr Price.