A MAN abused his neighbour and then threw a punch at a stranger during an all-day drinking session.

Blackburn magistrate heard Alfie Thomas McPherson was grieving after the death of a family member.

McPherson, 18, of Gloucester Avenue, Clayton-le-Moors, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour. He was made subject to a community order for six months with 15 days' rehabilitation activity requirement, fined £50 and ordered to pay £85 costs and £85 victim surcharge.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said McPherson was having a conversation on his mobile phone and was becoming increasingly agitated.

"He was abusive towards his next-door neighbour and then approached another man and threw a punch at him," said Miss Allan.

"He then kicked some parked vehicles and a telephone box but didn't cause any damage."

Gareth Price, defending, said his client had suffered a close family bereavement and had been drinking heavily all day.

"He can't remember anything about the incident," said Mr Price.