Man punched girlfriend in the face after drinking session

Christopher Williams, 52, of Parc Hafod, Four Crosses, near Welshpool, spent the afternoon drinking before the attack on March 1.

Williams, who admitted a charge of assault by beating, appeared at Welshpool Magistrates Court yesterday.

He was given the community order, which included 80 hours unpaid work and a restraining order, and was ordered to pay his victim £500 compensation as well as court costs of £85.

He will also have to complete a "respectful relationships" workbook as part of the order.

Mr Matthew Ellis, prosecuting, said Williams had been drinking in the Cross Keys and Dolphin public houses in Llanymynech before heading home with his girlfriend.

Mr Ellis said: "The couple had been in a relationship and decided to meet in the Dolphin public house at 6.30pm.

"It was clear that the defendant had been drinking for some time. He was going around the pubs attempting to wind fellow drinkers up, but thankfully nobody responded because he is known for this kind of behaviour.

"They decided to head back to Four Crosses with two male friends and arguments were breaking out in the taxi on the short journey."

He said when they got in his girlfriend began eating a takeaway meal and an argument broke out. Williams pushed her to the floor. He then punched her to the face three times causing bruising and a cut lip.

"They were arguing and she ended up wetting herself," he said. "She asked to be let go and eventually Williams got off her and told her to pack her bags and leave.

"She did this and then walked out, with a friend picking her up shortly after."

Mr Huw Williams, for Williams, said his client was remorseful and would not be entering another relationship for some time.

He added: "I am grateful to probation for a good report on my client. He is remorseful and he will not be looking to get himself in a relationship now for some time."