A TEENAGER used ‘excessive self-defence’ in a fight which left his victim injured, Burnley magistrates heard.

The court was told Ryan Pickering’s victim, John Brown, had thrown the first punch in the trouble in Nelson on May 18.

Mr Brown, who had been with his partner and baby in a pram, had argued with Pickering before the ‘fist fight’.

The defendant was to tell police: “It was a fair fight and I just happened to come out best.”

Pickering, of Castle Street, Nelson, admitted assault by beating. He was fined £110, with £85 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

Jasmine Basnyet, defending, said there was provocation on both sides. It was not an arranged meeting or fight.

The solicitor continued: “The first punch was thrown by the victim, but he missed.”