A WOMAN who stabbed her partner in the back after a row over cash walked free from court after a judge said the knifing was "bizarre."

Burnley Crown Court heard how Lisa Marsh, 22, had grabbed victim Eric Norton by the throat and threatened to kill him before attacking him in the lower back at their home in Earby.

The court was told how Mr Norton, who had been with the defendant four years, would not make a formal complaint to police and did not want Marsh punished.

The jobless defendant, of Mostyn Avenue, admitted wounding and had been committed for sentence by Burnley Magistrates. She was given 80 hours community punishment.

Sentencing, Judge Beverley Lunt told Marsh she was not a danger to other people.

She added:"There is something seriously wrong in this relationship, but that's something for them to resolve."

The judge told Marsh: "Heaven only knows what you were thinking. You are very lucky indeed to have such an understanding partner.

"What you committed was a serious crime and you have lost your good character for always."

Richard Hunt, prosecuting, told the court both the defendant and victim had lost their jobs and had argued over money.

Mr Hunt said police were called to the couple's home and found a large carving knife in ths sink. Mr Norton had a cut in his back but no vital organs had been punctured.