A DRUNK had a dinner plate smashed over his head during a melee in which he assaulted his mother-in-law.

Paul Kelly was asked to leave the family home after returning home drunk after a boozing session, Teesside Crown Court heard.

The victim got in between Kelly and his long-term partner and was then struck a blow by the defendant to the right hand side of her face.

Prosecuting, Paul Abrahams said 34-year-old Kelly was then himself struck with a plate which caused a significant laceration to his forehead.

Police initially interviewed Kelly’s partner on suspicion of assault, but no action was taken against her.

Kelly, of Corby, Northants, had been living in County Durham, where the assault took place, and admitted a charge of battery on August 11 this year.

He had previous criminal convictions including possessing a machete and kitchen knives in a public place.

Martin Towers, mitigating, said it was a “sad case” and claimed Kelly’s relationship with the victim had been good up until that point.

The Recorder of Middlesbrough, Judge Simon Bourne-Arton said Kelly had a drink problem and the argument between those involved had got out of hand.

Kelly was given a community order.