A HOUSEHOLDER was beaten with sticks when he confronted a gang who kicked the door in at his home.

Thomas Malloy had been celebrating his 45th birthday at his house when his property came under attack.

Newcastle Crown Court was told that when he went to investigate, he was beaten and punched, leaving him with wounds to his back and a black eye.

Barry Turner and Aaron Richardson, both 18, admitted being at the scene of the attack and encouraging others who were involved in the violence.

The pair denied using violence and their guilty pleas to affray were accepted on that basis.

The attack happened on September 3 last year as Mr Malloy celebrated his birthday at home.

Bridie Smurthwaite, prosecuting, told the court: "His door was kicked in and he went outside to investigate.

"There was a crowd, including the defendants, and some members of that crowd had sticks.

"In the ensuing melee there was shouting and encouragement from the defendants."

Defence barristers told the court there has been no further trouble involving Mr Malloy.

Mr Recorder Hatton sentenced Turner, of Cairo Street, Hendon, Sunderland, and Richardson, of Fuller Road, Sunderland, to a community order with 60 hours unpaid work.

The judge told them: "I am entirely satisfied you were present at the scene and you took some part, albeit simply by presence and encouragement."