A CUSTOMER delivered a back-handed slap to a shop worker in Carlisle city centre after the man helped him by retrieving his dropped mobile phone.

Ryan Cayne, 19, of Coalfell Avenue, Carlisle, admitted an assault by beating when he appeared before magistrates at the city’s Rickergate court.

The offence, committed as the defendant was visiting Candy World in Grapes Lane with friends, was aggravated because the victim had been serving the public, said magistrates.

They imposed a 12-month community order, with 40 hours of unpaid work.

Cayne must also pay £85 costs and a £114 victim surcharge.