Karl Farrell was on bail for another attack when he launched the unprovoked, alcohol-fuelled assault in Earby in May.

Farrell (23), of Craven Court, Warwick Drive, Earby, had previous convictions for assault and affray and had recently been jailed for assault causing actual bodily harm, Pennine magistrates heard.

The defendant was given a 12-month community order with supervision and the Controlliing Anger and Managing It course after admitting assault by beating. He must also pay £150 compensation and £60 costs.

Mr David Hartley (prosecuting) said about 10 p.m., the victim heard noises outside and saw two men, one of them the defendant, shouting.
The neighbour complained about the noise and said he did not want his three-year-old child waking up.

Farrell asked him: "You are going to phone the police, are you? Well go on then." The defendant then challenged the victim to a fight.

The neighbour told the men to go away, but the defendant hit him on the forehead, leaving him dazed and bleeding and fearing more blows.

The victim, who claimed Farrell had a bandage or pot on his arm, was taken to Airedale Hospital for treatment.

Mr David Lawson (defending) said Farrell had been to custody for the first time and had suffered anxiety and stress. It had been a very harrowing experience as he had been bullied, leaving him so traumatised he had feared leaving his cell.

Farrell had argued with his girlfriend and had been in drink. It was a single blow and was then over.

The defendant was now awaiting surgery on his arm.

Mr Lawson added Farrell recognised he was drinking too much and was also suffering from depression.