A MAN attacked a passer-by after he intervened in a fight, a court was told yesterday.

David Britton, 20, of Egglestone View, Darlington, denied assaulting Raymond Bullock.

He was found guilty after a trial at South Durham Magistrates' Court.

Rachel Masters, prosecuting, said Mr Bullock was walking home when he saw two men.

"He noted that the first male got off his bike and approached another male in front of him," said Miss Masters. "He saw the other male fall to the floor. He said to the male 'there was no need for that'."

She said Britton then assaulted Mr Bullock.

The court heard that Britton had turned his life around since the attack and was starting a college joinery course.

Britton was given a 12-month community rehabilitation order and 40 hours of community service.

He owed £800 to the court in fines. Magistrates remitted £400 and ordered him to pay £100 compensation.