A man from Padiham strangled his then-partner in his home causing the neighbours to ring the police.

Stuart James Haworth, 46, of Bendwood Close, Padiham, told police: "I did not punch her I gripped her to the floor" when he was arrested.

Burnley Crown Court heard that at 10pm on January 22, Haworth and his victim were at his address when the incident occurred.

Prosecutor Mark Stephenson told the court that Lancashire Police officers were called to the address after the pair had been at a party.

The court heard Haworth then went to the shop to buy bread, but came back with alcohol instead.

When the victim questioned Haworth, he then grabbed her by the throat, threw her to the floor and strangled her.

The court heard that when the victim managed to flee outside, Haworth shouted "You best get back in here or the police will be called".

The victim managed to flee to a neighbour's house, who then called the police.

In mitigation, Neil Howarth hold the court that the defendant had been struggling with alcohol and drug addiction since his father died of dementia last year.

He said: "The victim does not want the defendant to go to jail.

"She understands he has been through a lot recently and wishes for him to get help outside of immediate custody.

"He is extremely ashamed of his actions and wishes to get help for his issues."

The defendant had been due to see mental health services including Inspire and his GP shortly after the offence took place.

The court heard he also had a prescription for anti-depressants, and had attempted to take his own life in the past.

Haworth pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation.

Judge Daniel Prowse sentenced Haworth to one year in prison, suspended for 18 months.

He said: "The background of your offending seems to be due to your father's death.

"I accept the victim does not want you to go to jail, or have a restraining order put against you, but I have to think of the wider public when dealing with dangerous offences such as this.

"You have let your family down as well as the victim. Your strong mitigation surrounding your mental health, substance abuse and recent family deaths are the only reason I am able to suspend this sentence."