A FATHER-of-five has been jailed for three years for a New Year's Day attack which left the victim needing surgery to relieve swelling on the brain.

John Boslem, 40, was punched by Jeff Bonnie causing him to fall backwards and strike his head sharply on the pavement and while on the ground, Bonnie attacked him.

Bonnie, 33, of Lodge Street, Accrington, appeared at Preston Crown Court for sentence after previously admitting causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Julian Holt, prosecuting, said the attack took place on New Year's Day, 2006, and at the time the defendant was living in Glebe Street, Burnley.

He and his partner, Victoria Parkinson, had gone to her mother's home in Burnley..

Mr Boslem was the partner of Miss Parkinson's mother and the four spent New Year's Eve together watching TV.

In the early hours of New Year's Day there was a disagreement between Bonnie and his partner over her telephoning someone and wishing them a happy New Year.

Bonnie went home alone and Miss Parkinson returned at 3am accompanied by Mr Boslem and there was another argument.

It was decided that the matter should be decided outside in the street.

Mr Boslem told the court that a punch caused him to fall back on to the road. He struck his head sharply on the pavement.

It was alleged that Bonnie then kicked Mr Boslem hard in the stomach twice and kicked him in the back. He then took hold of Mr Boslem's collar and punched him three times to his head.

He suffered three rib fractures and a punctured lung.

A scan revealed bleeding in the brain and he had to have an operation.

In a statement Mr Boslem described how he was now forgetful and could not do simple tasks. Michael Murray, defending, said: "There was a New Year's Eve fall out, too much to drink on both sides."