A FORKLIFT truck driver who grabbed his partner by the throat has avoided a prison sentence.

Preston Crown Court heard Michael David Middlehurst assaulted the woman on Boxing Day and December 27.

Alistair Reid, prosecuting, said Middlehurst, 37, had argued with the victim on December 26 at around 4.30pm at her home before he grabbed her wrist and twisted it.

Mr Reid said in the early hours of December 27 the couple were arguing before Middlehurst grabbed her by the throat and and pushed her back so her head was hanging over the bed.

The court heard Middlehurst also pushed her head against a wall with his forehead.

Middlehurst then grabbed her by the throat.

Darren Lee-Smith, defending, said his client has no reason to contact the victim again and offered to pay compensation.

Middlehurst, of Powell Street, Darwen, was found guilty at trial of two counts of common assault.

Judge Robert Altham ordered Middlehurst to complete a 12-month community order, 250 hours of unpaid work, a 12-week curfew and pay £500 fine.

A restraining order was also put on Middlehurst which means he could not contact the victim for three years.