A TEENAGER who assaulted two care home workers for docking his pocket money believes his behaviour will improve now he has found love.

The 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said he is now enjoying life because he has fallen in love with a girl from Barnstaple.

The boy appeared at North Devon Youth Court on Tuesday where he pleaded guilty to two counts of assault and one charge of using threatening words or behaviour.

The court heard police were called to a North Devon school after the boy had been excluded but refused to leave the premises.

Ben Winzer, for the prosecution, said: "He had been behaving aggressively and when the police arrived he was abusive to staff, fellow students and the officers.

"When police tried to take him off the premises he punched out at an officer and was arrested and released on bail.

"Four days later, while still on bail, he assaulted two workers at a care home.

"He was angry that his pocket money had been docked for his bad behaviour and punched a desk woman in the head.

"When another member of staff came to her aid he punched him in the head too, causing injury to both."

Tim Hook, for the defence, said it was another chapter in the continuing story of a boy living in the unhappy environment of a care home.

He said: "He admits lashing out at the care home workers, though his actions only caused a bit of a headache which was cured by paracetamol. There were no visible injuries."

The teenager sighed and held his head in his hands as Mr Hook said: "My client has fallen in love with a girl from Barnstaple.

"He has found an interest outside his immediate environment and is now enjoying life.

"His whole life has taken on a new aspect since finding love and he has taken a step forward."

Magistrate Ian Kingsbury said: "Let's hope this young lady has a positive effect on you. You do have a future."

The case was adjourned until February 28 for a full probation report.