A Bradford man who smacked a six-year-old girl so hard he bruised her thighs and bottom has been sentenced to six months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, with 100 hours of unpaid work.

The man, in his 20s, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the child, pleaded guilty to a offence of child cruelty in August, 2012.

The court heard he hit the girl after she wet the bed.

A doctor who examined the child concluded she had suffered multiple slaps delivered with significant force.

The man’s solicitor Tom Rushbrooke said his client had issues controlling his temper and had sought help.

Smacking the girl was “a moment of madness” he deeply regretted.