A DRUNKEN man who brought terror to a family after bursting in at night has been jailed for 15 months.

Sean Nerney, 31, pushed a middle-aged woman to the floor, chased her son, and then threw an iron through the kitchen window.

He was arrested and when questioned by police said he had gone to the wrong house but flatly denied there was any trouble, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Nerney, already behind bars after being recalled on licence from a four year jail term, will now be released at the end of next January.

Sentencing, Judge Simon Newell said: "You must realise that behaviour like that just isn't on."

Nerney, of Admiral Street, Burnley, admitted affray.

Sarah Statham, prosecuting, said just after 10.30pm, Mr Steer, his girlfriend Charlotte Clegg and Mr Steer's parents were at their home in Burnley.

His father Derek was just recovering from a second heart attack.

Only David Steer, who knew the defendant, was still up.

Nerney tried to get in the back door, Mr Steer saw the handle being opened but Nerney left. He went into the back yard and saw the defendant.

Mr Steer swore at him and then went back into the house.

Miss Statham said the rest of the family heard the commotion and came downstairs.

The defendant then burst into the kitchen, Mr Steer tried to get at him, but his mother stood between the pair.

Mr Steer was trying to punch Nerney and the defendant lashed out, pushing the mother to the floor.

Mr Steer and his partner went upstairs to contact police, but Nerney followed.

The defendant then left, picking up a heavy iron as he left.

He hurled it through the kitchen window, showering Mr Steer with shards of glass and causing him minor cuts. The family was left shocked and frightened.

The prosecutor said police arrested the defendant nearby and took him to the police station.

He was very drunk. Nerney had a lengthy criminal record, mostly for dishonesty.

Joe Boyd, for Nerney, said when he was released in August 2009 he tried desperately to make something of himself and get away from drink and drugs.

He had a relationship but it broke down and his behaviour deteriorated.