A DRUNKEN man attacked his partner in a rage after his meal was not ready when he returned from the pub.

Timothy Gough had drunk 15 pints before he lashed out at mum-of-four Susan Hardiman, punching her numerous times on her head and body.

Terrified Miss Hardiman and three of her children fled through the front window of their home to escape Gough's flailing fists, Worcester Crown Court heard.

Gough, aged 49, of Avon Road, Rifle Range Estate, Kidderminster, was jailed for 12 months.

He admitted assault causing actual bodily harm and possessing cannabis resin.

Prosecutor Rhona Campbell said Miss Hardiman ached all over after the attack and some of her hair had been pulled out.

Cannabis

Police called to the house found a small piece of cannabis in a jewellery box.

Saleema Mahmood, defending, said Gough had led a turbulent life and had suffered from alcohol and gambling addictions.

But he showed remorse for the injuries he had inflicted. He loved his partner and she returned his affection, she said.

Miss Mahmood said Gough had a good relationship with her four children, who looked upon him as a loving and caring father figure. He was unable to work because of arthritis of the knees but did jobs around the home.

Judge David McEvoy QC pointed out that Gough had a record of 66 offences although the last for violence was in 1993. He added, however, that prison was inevitable for battering his partner while he was drunk.