A FATHER-TO-BE whose Staffordshire Bull Terrier sank its teeth into a man's private parts has been banned from keeping dogs for five years - and warned he could be jailed if he did.

Sean Taylor's pet left victim Robert White with bite marks all over his body after pouncing in Peel Street, Padiham, last September, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Taylor, 21, had earlier admitted being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control in public and injury being caused. Judge Raymond Bennett had adjourned sentence to allow time to get rid of the animal and for pre-sentence reports.

The court was told police had been to Taylor's home in Peel Street twice and there was nothing to indicate he now had a dog.

The judge gave the defendant a 12-month community rehabilitation order. He also made the five-year disqualification order and warned Taylor if he ever got a dog again, he must get help with training.

He continued: "It is hopeless having a dog unless you know how to train it."

The judge added the defendant "may well" receive a jail term if he kept a dog within the five year period.

Judge Bennett did not make an order of compensation, although he said one would be "entirely justified."

He said he would leave it to Mr White to go to the civil court or, if so advised, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board.

John Sawyer, defending, told the court there had been two dogs in Taylor's house as his partner had owned one as well. Both have now gone.