A DELIVERY driver today told how his life had been torn apart since a drunken youth savagely smashed his face with a hammer.

Bryan Brooks, 46, from Accrington, was working for an all-night alcohol delivery service when 17-year-old Martyn Jarasunas set upon him, knocking out nine of his teeth and leaving him requiring 39 stitches.

Since the unprovoked attack last November Mr Brooks has had to come to terms with disfigurement.

Today he spoke of the horrific ordeal and his wish to finally move on now Jarasunas, of Bradford Street, Accrington, has been sentenced to four years in a young offenders' institution.

Dad-of-one Mr Brooks was delivering a crate of beer to Jarasunas and a companion in Accrington. The friend distracted Mr Brooks and the teenager was meant to steal the lager.

However Jarasunas had a hammer up his sleeve and launched an unprovoked attack on Mr Brooks.

He said: "It was like this red hot surge. It felt like someone had smashed me to pieces. It was horrific.

"Teeth were knocked out and others were dangling. There was blood everywhere. Afterwards, when I looked in the mirror I didn't recognise myself. I have been in pain ever since. I struggle to eat and drink. Liquid dribbles out of my mouth."

"It has affected my personality. I cannot have a laugh since it happened.

"I feel vulnerable. I am trying to get my life back together. I didn't think it would have the effect it has had.

"I have got to put it behind me and not keep dwelling on it."