A MAN has been given a 24 month suspended sentence after pleading guilty to common assault.

Joseph Conlon, aged 22, of Fairfield Drive, Bury, admitted hitting his girlfriend over the head with a broom and threatening to slit her ankles with a knife whilst under the influence of alcohol.

He was already serving five and a half months for a similar assault offence where he broke his girlfriend’s right arm after an argument.

Judge Richard Gioserano told Bolton Crown Court he was satisfied that after pleading guilty to the most recent offence, he had served enough time to reflect on his actions.

He said: “There is no doubt that you treated this woman appallingly and drink and drugs is simply no excuse.

“Any argument you had you thought that you could resolve it with violence and although your ex-girlfriend has no lasting physical scars, she is scarred emotionally.

“I can see though that you want to address your problems and that you have shown some remorse and because you pleaded guilty I will give you some credit.”

He was given a five year restraining order, a curfew and 18 hours rehabilitation.