A MAN has been given a prison sentence for an assault which occurred in Kendal town centre.

Sean Buchanan, 22, committed the crime after visiting Joe Hague's Highgate flat on January 6.

Carlisle Crown Court was told that the property was also occupied by another man.

Buchanan's intention, the court heard, was to buy cannabis. But during the course of his visit there was said to have been a dispute over the quality and quantity of the product on offer.

MORE TOP STORIES: And Buchanan then lashed out at Mr Hague, striking him on the head. The victim was left with a small cut behind his ear.

Buchanan was said to have initially claimed he acted in self-defence. However, he went on to admit that he had committed an unlawful act.

Buchanan was originally charged in relation to a more serious allegation, that of aggravated burglary.

But no evidence was offered by the prosecution on that charge at the crown court today and he was formally acquitted.

Instead he pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of common assault, and was sentenced immediately by Recorder Kevin Grice.

Buchanan, of Greengate, Kendal, was given a 10-week prison sentence.

But the court heard he had been in custody on remand since January 8.

And as a result, Recorder Grice said to Buchanan: "My understanding, therefore, is that with the time you have served (in custody) that will result in your immediate release once the appropriate formalities and paperwork have been completed."