A former soldier attacked two boys when something was thrown at his camper van.

Blackburn magistrates heard Tommy Johnson grabbed the first boy, who was just 12, by the neck and pinned him against a wall.

The boy said Johnson had a key in his hand as he punched him and then threw him to the floor, all the time shouting racist abuse.

The second boy, aged 13, told police he initially ran off because he was scared but then heard his cousin screaming and went back.

He said Johnson chased him, grabbed him and threw him against a wall and then onto the floor. He was punched several times and Johnson screamed: "If you P***s touch my van again I will kill you."

Johnson, 46, of Blascomay Square, Colne, was convicted after trial of two charges of racially aggravated assault. He was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison suspended for two years with 15 days rehabilitation activity requirement and 180 hours unpaid work. He was ordered to pay £500 compensation to each of the boys and £154 victim surcharge.

Passing sentence, District Judge Alexandra Preston said as Johnson assaulted the children he racially abused them.

"You caused them physical injuries and significant psychological distress," said District Judge Preston. "That was compounded by them having to give evidence at your trial."

She said Johnson had completely lost his temper and had chased the boys down before assaulting them.

"You behaved in a disgraceful way towards two innocent children," said District Judge Preston. "I believe there is a chance of rehabilitation but I reserve any breach of the suspended prison sentence to myself."

Greame Tindall, prosecuting,  said the boys were walking home from school and there were other youngsters in the area. Something was thrown at the van from behind them.

The 12-year-old said he didn't know what had happened but the defendant suddenly grabbed him by the neck.

Mr Tindall said Johnson had five previous convictions for violence but had not been in trouble since 2009.

John Rusius, defending, said his client had always disputed the racial element of the charge.

"He says he didn't confront them because of who they were but because of what he believed they had done." said Mr Rusius. "He has always accepted that he over-stepped the mark but the racially aggravated element was always a triable issue."

Mr Rusius said Johnson had served in the Army until he was discharged on medical grounds and shortly before Covid had started his own business.

"He is a working man who for many years has kept out of trouble," said Mr Rusius.