A MAN who stamped on his partner's chest in a sustained 40-minute attack has avoided immediate custody.

Andrew Ford, aged 21, was sentenced to 16 weeks in custody, suspended by one year, and ordered to stay away from Faye James for five years, following his attack on her.

Louise Mead, prosecuting, said the incident happened at an address where the couple lived together.

She said Miss James had returned home on the morning of Tuesday, January 18, excited about going to pick up a new puppy, which started an argument between the couple. Mrs Mead said: “They started arguing about general things and she asked him to leave but he refused.

“She put some of his clothes by the back door and the door was then closed behind him.

“He kicked it several times and she was worried he would damage it.

As Miss James opened the door, Ford slapped her hard to the head and pushed her.

He followed her into the living room and when she tried to push him away, he grabbed her in a head lock.

“Once she was on the floor, he stamped on her chest,” said Mrs Mead.

“She managed to get up and call the police and he is alleged to have still kept hitting her while she was on the phone.

“Also, during the argument, he went to get a knife but she stopped him.”

Rob Macrory, defending, said the attack was “very much a heat of the moment thing”.

Ford, now of Saddlers Walk, Brickfields, Worcester, must also complete a 12-month supervision requirement and was ordered to pay £150 compensation and £50 costs.