Hyndburn magistrates heard Ralph Sunter (60) felt it would be disrespectful to the memory of his wife to interfere with the overgrown garden which had attracted adverse comment from neighbours.

Sunter, of Robinson Street, admitted assaulting Karen Sunter. He was remanded on bail for the preparation of reports.

Philippa White (prosecuting) said Miss Sunter had tried to discuss the issue with her father but he became aggressive.

Miss Sunter (35) decided to take the dog for a walk while he calmed down, but when she returned he was still angry. "She tried to reason with him but he wouldn't have it and took hold of her wrists and tried to push her down," said Mrs White. "He followed her into the kitchen and hit her on the top of her head with both fists. He then landed a series of slaps to the left side of her face."

Jonathan Taylor (defending) said his client was genuinely remorseful. "His wife died of cancer and he has found it very difficult to cope with that," said Mr Taylor. "Because of comments made by neighbours, his daughter had been nagging him to sort out the garden. He did not want to, because he believed interfering with that area would be disrespectful to his wife.

"He accepts he lost his temper and lashed out at his daughter. It is fair to say it has been a difficult time for both of them."