A MAN was assaulted outside his house as he spoke to a noisy gang of youths in a town "notorious" for anti-social behaviour, a court heard.

John Proud stepped outside to ask a group of about 20 youngsters to quieten down after his dog began barking at the noise.

After being abused by one of the teenagers, Mr Proud was punched from behind by Ryan Christopher Buddle, bursting open his top and bottom lip and giving him a bloody nose.

Buddle, of Shipley Terrace, in Crook, pleaded guilty to a charge of assault when he appeared before Bishop Auckland Magistrates' Court yesterday.

Alison Nunn, prosecuting, told the bench how the group's loud behaviour at about 8pm on Saturday, August 18, had agitated Mr Proud's dog, leading him to ask them to move on.

One of the group "mouthed off" at him, before 18-year-old Buddle came from behind and punched Mr Proud to the face, before running off.

The impact of the blow caused the man to fall to the ground, as well as causing his lips to split and his nose to bleed.

Mr Proud called the police, who identified Buddle and interviewed him.

When being questioned, the teenager said that he had "taken his opportunity" to hit the man, using his forearm instead of his fist.

Ms Nunn said: "Clearly, it was not a very nice incident for the victim.

"This was an unprovoked attack."

Buddle, who lives with his grandmother, said that he did not have a violent nature.

He said: "It should not have happened. I was just a bit drunk."

Chairwoman of the bench Ann Turnbull said: "At the moment, Crook is notorious for anti-social behaviour and it's got to stop."

Handing him a 12-month conditional discharge, she said: "You have been very lucky today that we haven't punished you worse.

"You have got to think before you act, because you are heading on a slippery path."

Buddle was also ordered to pay £50 compensation to Mr Proud and £43 costs.