POLICE patrolling in Preston New Road, Blackburn, saw John Terence Lettherd push his girlfriend during a late night row.

But Blackburn magistrates heard that what the officers had not seen was the girlfriend digging her fingernails into Lettherd's face and neck.

Lettherd, 18, of Johnston Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly.

He was granted a conditional discharge for 12 months and no order was made for costs.

Michael Cunningham, defending, said the argument had been fuelled by drink on both sides.

"Initially she laid into him with her nails and she literally dug them into his face and neck causing a great deal of pain," said Mr Cunningham.

"He was pushing her away when the police arrived and they automatically assumed he was at fault."