A YOUNG woman who had been knocked unconscious in a street assault attacked a police officer who came to her assistance.

Blackburn magistrates heard Fatima Ahmed butted the officer who was encouraging her to stay where she was until the ambulance arrived.

Ahmed, 21, of Richmond Avenue, Accrington, pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker. She was sentenced to eight weeks in prison suspended for 12 months and made subject to a community order for 12 months with 30 days rehabilitation activity requirement. She was ordered to pay £100 compensation, £122 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

Rachel Ottley, prosecuting, said police attended Blackburn Road, Accrington, at 11.30pm and found a female who had been left unconscious after an assault lying in the road.

"They checked to see she was alright and were waiting for the ambulance when she started coming to," said Ms Ottley.

"She tried to walk away but an officer told her they wanted to assist her and make sure she didn't come to any harm.

"A male officer took hold of her arm and she responded by headbutting him, splitting his lip."

Stephen Munton, defending, said his client had been unconscious and was still groggy when the police officer tried to stop her leaving.

"She lashed out, thinking it was the female who had knocked her out," said Mr Munton.