A TEENAGER who took part in attacks which left three men needing hospital treatment, has escaped a jail term for the assaults.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Leon Felton, 19, then hooked on crack cocaine, had earlier been given community sentences for his part in the troubles two years ago, but had flouted them.

Felton, of Alexandria Street, Rawtenstall, admitted breaching a three month curfew order and a combination order. He is currently serving a four month custodial term for theft and deception.

Sentencing, Recorder Timothy Ryder said a "great deal of water had gone under the bridge," since the offences.

The defendant had done the 100 hours community punishment imposed, albeit belatedly,and shown an ability to change his behaviour.

Felton was fined £100 and the judge said he would leave the community rehabilitation part of the earlier sentence, which included the Think First programme, in place.

The court was told the defendant was given the curfew order after being convicted of affray. The combination order of 100hours community punishment and two years community rehabilitation had been imposed for grievous bodily harm and assault causing actual bodily harm.

David Tempkin, defending, said at the time the defendant had had a crack cocaine habit. He had been mixing with the wrong crowd and had lost the support of those around him.

Felton had now undergone a great change, had the support of his family and had shaken off the associates who had encouraged him to commit crime and take drugs.