A PENSIONER who attacked his disabled girlfriend dragged her downstairs screaming and then suggested they have sex, a court heard.

Burnley Magistrates heard how Jack Francis Smith, 67, left victim Carole Pickup in pain, shocked and bruised. When police arrived they found her with blood on her dressing gown and sobbing so much she was hardly able to speak.

Smith, of St Cuthbert's Street, Burnley, admitted assault by beating and was bailed until September 4 for a pre-sentence report. The bench told him they were looking at a community penalty.

Elizabeth Reed, prosecuting, said the couple had gone out, Smith had between ten and 12 pints and was very drunk on the night of the incident. They got home, went to bed and the defendant started ranting and seemed to be upset about Mrs Pickup's son.

The pair rowed and Smith pulled Mrs Pickup out of bed and punched her about the head and body. She got away, but could not get far as she was partially disabled.

Smith pulled Mrs Pickup downstairs as she screamed and shouted, suggested they had sex and was abusive. He then grabbed her dressing gown, pulled it apart, took hold of her by the throat and pulled her to the ground, shouting: "Here we go again." Smith finally let go, left and police were called.

Graeme Tindall, defending, said Smith's offending was domestic related and drink was involved.