A MAN launched two unprovoked attacks on people in two Burnley town centre pubs.

Blackburn magistrates heard Timothy Gill was shirtless and wearing his underpants over his jeans.

Before he hit one of his victims on the back of the head he said; "Sorry about this I want locking up."

Gill, 27, of Gannow Lane, Burnley, pleaded guilty to two charges of assault. He was remanded on bail for the preparation of a pre-sentence report. Conditions of bail are that he doesn't enter Bootleggers or the Cross Keys on St James Street.

Janice Vallance, prosecuting, said the first victim was working at the Cross Keys when Gill asked to speak to him outside. He went out but Gill didn't say anything and so the other man went back inside.

"He heard the defendant say he was sorry but he wanted locking up and then felt a blow to the back of his head which knocked him to the floor," said Miss Vallance. "He was then punched to the body four or five times before the defendant left."

People who were in the Cross Keys followed Gill to Bootleggers where the second victim was punched to the ribs in a totally unprovoked attack.

Gareth Price, defending, said his client had no previous convictions.

"There are clearly mental health issues and it is accepted that a pre-sentence report will be required," said Mr Price.