A DRUNK who punched a 15-year-old boy twice in the neck has narrowly avoided jail.Keith Adams, of Fore Street, Ipswich, appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates' Court where he admitted assaulting the teenager at an address in the town.

A DRUNK who punched a 15-year-old boy twice in the neck has narrowly avoided jail.

Keith Adams, of Fore Street, Ipswich, appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates' Court where he admitted assaulting the teenager at an address in the town.

In sentencing, bench chairman Bob Skinner, told him: "Do you realise for an offence of this nature it would have been appropriate for us to send you to prison?

"It was a minor that you hit and that is unacceptable."

Adele Cook, prosecuting, said Adams had been looking after two children who were also with two of their friends at the house. The teenage victim was among them.

Magistrates heard Adams had been drinking during the day on November 22 and started smashing plates in the kitchen.

The 48-year-old asked the visiting children to leave the house. All the children left but the teenager later returned.

Ms Cook told magistrates: "He (Adams) punched the teenager twice in the neck. The victim delivered a punch in return. He (Adams) kicked out at the victim in the leg."

The court heard the boy had no visible injuries, but had sore knuckles where he punched Adams. He also had a sore neck.

Representing himself Adams told magistrates he had apologised to the boy adding: "I am deeply ashamed."

The court heard he could not remember what happened and he is receiving help for his drink problem.

Magistrates sentenced him a 12 month rehabilitation order and ordered him to carry out 60 hours unpaid work in the community.

He must also pay £75 compensation to his victim and was ordered to pay £55 court costs.

After sentencing Adams Mr Skinner told him: "Think yourself lucky."