A MAN groped a 77-year old pensioner while he was visiting a residential care home.

Blackburn magistrates heard Robert Ernest Bristow claimed he was looking at the victim's beads but then grabbed her breasts.

The court was told the victim was 'terrified' and also that Bristow had a previous conviction for indecent assault.

Bristow, 64,of Holly Court, Troy Street, Blackburn, was convicted after a trial of sexual assault.

He was sentenced to 26 weeks in prison suspended for two years and ordered to complete 20 days rehabilitation activity requirement and pay £300 costs and £115 victim surcharge.

He was made subject to an indefinite restraining order which prohibits him from having any contact with the victim or entering the care home where she lives.

Sentencing Bristow District Judge James Clarke said it was a serious matter.

"I have to recognise the vulnerability of the victim and the position she was in," said Judge Clarke. "Because it was short lived and unplanned I am going to keep the matter at this court and suspend the prison sentence."

Scott Parker, defending, said his client still did not accept the prosecution version of events.