A FORMER patient spat at a mental health worker while he was on a works' night out, a court heard.

Kavina Leyanna Kennedy assaulted Robert Welburn in late-night bar Retro, Darlington Magistrates' Court heard.

David Maddison, prosecuting, said Mr Welburn had been out for a meal with colleagues from Tees, Esk, and Wear Valley NHS Foundation Trust.

The group then went for drinks in the town centre.

Mr Welburn was standing next to the dance floor in the Skinnergate bar, when he felt something wet on the side of his face.

He only realised what had happened when he saw 36-year-old Kennedy, Mr Maddison said.

Kennedy, of St James Court, Darlington, pleaded guilty to assault. The incident happened on Friday, December 17.

Andrew Clinton, in mitigation, said Mr Welburn had worked with Kennedy at West Park Hospital.

"Unfortunately, she hasn't been able to control herself when she bumped into him on this occasion, " he said.

"I hope you will be minded to stick to a community penalty as I think she is someone who needs help."

Magistrates agreed with the request and adjourned the case until Tuesday, February 8.