A MAN who once placed his ex-partner in a chokehold and threatened to kill her has been jailed for assaulting her again.

Preston Crown Court heard Lindsay Harkin was jailed for two years in 2016 for the attack on his ex during which he told her: “I would rather spend my days in jail and you be dead than live without you.”

Harkin, 28, was released on licence in 2017 and initially lived in a bail hostel for two months before moving back in with his victim. The court heard Harkin was recalled back to prison after the complainant threw him out of her house.

After Harkin was released in September 2018, the relationship started up again and it was on March 27 that he attacked her.

Prosecuting, Lisa Worsley said the pair had gone to the victim's friend's house in Accrington to see her new baby.

Ms Worsley said Harkin had the victim's phone and bank card and when she asked for them back an argument ensued.

As she tried to get her phone back off Harkin he grabbed her hair and scratched her neck.

After a friend intervened, Harkin went back to the complainant's house, saying he would move his stuff out and leave the door unlocked for her. When she returned home the following day, the victim found Harkin was still in the property, he had locked the door and refused to let her in. The police were called and Harkin, who has 11 convictions for 22 offences, was taken into custody.

Harkin, of Catlow Hall Street, Oswaldtwistle, pleaded guilty to assault by beating.

Defending, Bob Sastry said: "I accept on Mr Harkin's behalf that he has a very bad record for violence. A particularly aggravating feature in this case is the 2016 matter. He does accept the relationship is now finally over."

Jailing Harkin for 162 days, Judge Simon Newell said: "I have this worry and concern for the health and welfare of the complainant."

A five-year restraining order was imposed.