A DISGRUNTLED student set about a shop manager after she refused to give him a refund over a hat.

Burnley Magistrates heard how Amanda Isherwood was struck by Kasim Amin and knocked to the floor before he ran from the shop chased by staff members.

Miss Isherwood, manger of JB Sports in Burnley, suffered concussion after the attack and was left suffering headaches.

Amin, an engineering student, later told police he had lost his temper.

Amin, 18, of Regent Street, Nelson, admitted assault by beating and was sent to an attendance centre for 28 hours.

Philippa White, prosecuting, said Amin wanted a refund for a hat but because of its condition, his request was refused.

He swore, twice demanded his money back and was asked by the victim to mind his language. Amin was asked to leave the store more than once and was told police would be called if he did not co-operate.

He then lunged at the manager, trying to hit her and struck her on the side of the head with a clenched fist. Miss Isherwood was knocked to the floor and the defendant ran from the store.

Mrs White said Amin was arrested and Miss Isherwood went to the hospital casualty department.

Brian Irlam, defending, said the hat was brand new, had been bought for Amin by a relative and still had the label on.

It did not fit, he had the receipt and had not been worn other than to try it on.

The defendant never expected any difficulty when he went to the shop and thought he would just get his money back.

The manager refused to exchange it and he swore at her.

Amin believed several people gathered around him, were laughing at him and mocking him and he struck one blow at the manager.

Mr Irlam said when Amin was at the police station, he said he was sorry immediately.

Amin, whose father had recently died, was studying at Nelson and Colne College. His actions were foolhardy, silly and on the spur of the moment.

He had lost his good name and reputation. Amin had no income whatsoever and was not in a position to pay compensation and costs.