A CONTROLLING and devious thug threatened to kill and chop up his ex-partner after grabbing an axe.

Mark Little first assaulted Amanda O’Brien on March 6 at a mutual friend’s home in Workington, headbutting her twice and punching her in the face.

A week later at the same house, 51-year-old Little pushed her to the floor, causing injury, and dragged her by the hair between rooms. Soon after, he took hold of a large black axe.

This, prosecutor Tim Evans told Carlisle Crown Court ,was a “heavy, sharp and frankly fearsome weapon”.

“He dropped the axe but shouted at her ‘shut your mouth, I will kill you and chop you up’,” said Mr Evans.

“He headbutted her to the nose and followed that up with a punch to the left cheek.”

Ms O’Brien fled the property and called police.

“She was absolutely terrified. She thought there was a possibility that the defendant would come looking for her with the axe.

“Witnesses describe her as being bloodied, bruised and hysterical,” added Mr Evans.

The victim was so distressed she moved away from Cumbria, telling police: “I honestly believe he could kill me.”

She said of his offending: “It has ruined my life.”

After his arrest, Little claimed the first assault was an accident and told police the second incident was his victim jealously telling lies.

The court heard heavily-convicted Little, of Milburn Street, Workington, had a criminal record stretching back 35 years, including violence and a lengthy jail term for robbery.

He admitted two assaults on Ms O’Brien - one causing actual bodily harm - along with making a threat to kill and perverting the course of justice, having tried to concoct a false alibi from prison.

Brendan Burke, defending, spoke of his client’s positive progress while remanded in custody and supporting documentation presented to the judge.

He said: “It can give the court confidence he is embarking on very serious self-reflection.”

Little was jailed for six years by Recorder Kevin Grice, who told him: “You are, in my view, a controlling, manipulative and devious man who, in certain circumstances, fuelled by drink and drugs, is capable of threatening and inflicting violence, particularly on women.”

Little was also banned from contacting the victim for seven years.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Carolyn Wilson said: “Little is facing the harsh reality of a long spell behind bars for the violence he carried out.

“These were cowardly, brutal assaults which left this woman in extreme fear. That makes it all the more important to pay tribute to her bravery throughout this case.”

DC Wilson added: “Domestic violence is a priority for Cumbria Constabulary and we take a proactive and sensitive approach to investigating incidents which are reported to us.

“Anyone experiencing domestic abuse can feel reassured that all reports will be dealt with sensitively and professionally.

“Our officers are committed to tackling all types of domestic abuse, prosecuting those responsible and working with partner agencies to support victims and survivors.

“If you are a victim of domestic abuse, are affected by domestic abuse or know someone who is suffering please come forward.

“We can help you, and get the support you need. We will work to keep you safe from further offences and to bring the perpetrator to justice.

“We do not want victims to suffer in silence – we can help you.

“If you have been the victim of such abuse – or if you know of a friend, relative or neighbour who has – contact the police today.”