Burnley Crown Court heard how Leon Horsfall (26) attacked Matthew Hornsby in the street, injuring his hand and leaving him permanently scarred. Mr Hornsby initially thought he had been hit with a brick or glass.

Horsfall, of Hargreaves Street, Colne, admitted assault causing actual bodily harm last October. The defendant, who has a string of previous convictions for assault, dishonesty, attempted robbery and racial offences, has already served time behind bars.

Sentencing, Mr Recorder Parrington told the defendant: "You seem not to have learned that the use of violence is unacceptable."

Sarah Statham (prosecuting) said Mr Hornsby had been asked to retrieve a lurcher for a relative after it had been to various people. He found Horsfall and the dog in a back street and, following a struggle, the victim took possession of the dog.

Miss Statham said Mr Hornsby returned the dog to its original owner and was in Walton Street, Colne, when the defendant ran at him and he raised his hand in front of his face to protect himself. A witness who knew both men would say Horsfall looked as if he was throwing a punch at Mr Hornsby.

Mr Philip Holden (defending) said Horsfall felt a real sense of grievance over the dog. He had formed a bond with it and reacted badly when it was taken from him. He said: "The complainant simply came and grabbed the dog."

Horsfall had been to the community drugs team for help, had been put on a methadone reducing programme and, by the time he had been remanded in custody, was heroin free. The defendant had been in custody 42 days, had been punished and a drug rehabilitation order would be constructive.

Mr Holden went on: "Perhaps now at the age of 26 he is maturing to a degree he has taken on board help that has been offered him."