A MAN has been sentenced by a judge for intimidating and threatening his partner over the course of more than a year.

Paul Wright, 46, admitted assaulting Catherine Fallows, and subjecting her to controlling and coercive behaviour between December, 2015, and January this year.

While they were in a relationship, Wright had hidden her car keys so she could not get to work, intimidated her, been violent and damaged property.

On January 10 he grabbed Miss Fallows and held a knife to her back. Wright's criminal conduct was said to have left his victim frightened, jobless and homeless.

Recorder Kevin Grice imposed a 10-month prison sentence, but suspended it for two years after hearing Wright had been out of trouble for the "best part of two decades".

Wright, of Abbey Street, Carlisle, must attend a "building better relationships" course, complete a rehabilitation requirement and observe a four-month night-time curfew.

He was also banned from contacting Miss Fallows in any way for three years.