A MAN who tried to strangle his girlfriend during a late-night row has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Magistrates said only a custodial sentence was suitable after hearing that Luke Griffin also slapped his partner's face six times after drinking heavily.

A letter from the victim read to the court said: "Since the assault I have been unable to stay on my own at home.

"I no longer feel safe in my home."

She also said that it was not the first time he had assaulted her - although Griffin denied that was the case.

Griffin, of London Road, Worcester, admitted battery and resisting arrest in the early hours of Sunday, March 29.

Worcester Magistrates Court heard that Griffin, 23, and his partner of six months had been out drinking and went to bed at 3am.

During the night, Griffin banged his head on a bedside table and blamed his girlfriend.

Baljinder Kaur, prosecuting, said: "He had both his hands around her throat as she lay on her back and squeezed.

"She was unable to breathe."

The court heard the victim fled to the lounge but was followed by Griffin who grabbed her round the throat, threw her on the floor, and slapped her six times.

Mrs Kaur said she was left with a bruised face, swelling and bruises on her neck.

She called police who had to use CS spray after Griffin struggled and was abusive.

He later ran off in handcuffs when officers tried to get him into a police van.

Andy Childs, defending, said Griffin denied it had previously been a violent relationship.

He said both Griffin, a labourer, and the victim had drunk heavily and Griffin accepted alcohol affected his behaviour.

He added: "There is remorse and concern."

Magistrates sentenced him to three months' imprisonment for the assault and one month for resisting arrest, to run concurrently, and suspended for 24 months.

Griffin will be supervised, must complete a domestic violence programme and pay £250 compensation to the victim and costs of £60.