A CHIPPENHAM teen kicked a security guard in the head, Swindon Youth Court heard.

The 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named because he is under-18, lashed out as he thought the guard at the Emery Gate centre was being too rough with his friend – who was being kicked out because he was already banned. The boys had been drinking through the day.

Prosecutor Kate Prince said the victim in the case had been called to help colleagues who were trying to move on a group of youths in November last year.

Two boys had struck the bouncer, punching him then kicking him as he lay on the floor. The assault had left the victim's face swollen and red.

Appearing before Swindon Youth Court yesterday, the boy pleaded guilty to assault by beating and handling stolen goods. The latter charge related to the theft of a 16-year-old’s bicycle from outside Sainsbury’s in September.

Claire Gooding, defending, said her young client had been living away from his parents’ home at the time. He was easily led and had wanted to fit in. Since the attack the other boys involved had moved on.

Magistrates sentenced him to a 12 month youth referral order.