A MAN is facing a possible prison sentence after admitting causing injuries to a six-week-old baby boy.

Paul Barton, 26, pleaded guilty to a single count of unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm to the boy, at a brief hearing at Durham Crown Court yesterday.

No evidence was given to the court, but it is understood the baby suffered fractured ribs, plus bruising to his genitals and right leg between March 12 and 19.

Defence barrister Peter Schofield asked for reports to be drawn up by the probation service and psychiatric assessment to be carried out, before Barton is sentenced.

"There is a background of heroin addiction and it is his first conviction for violence, but it's a serious one.

"It is my opinion that it would be beneficial for the court to have a full understanding of the issues before he is sentenced," said Mr Schofield.

Agreeing to the request, Judge Tony Lancaster adjourned sentence until the week of January 10.

Bailing Barton to live with his parents in Finchley Crescent, Walker, Newcastle, Judge Lancaster warned him: "In adjourning, I am not indicating any sentence I have in mind. It is a serious offence on a child, a baby was seriously injured here, and it may be the only way to deal with it is to send you to prison."