A 44-YEAR-OLD man arrested following an incident of domestic violence told police he could not remember what had happened.

But when he appeared before court Michael Haworth put forward an entirely different version of events to that of his victim.

And Blackburn magistrates ruled the difference in the two versions of events was so great it would affect sentence.

Haworth, of George Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to assaulting Lindsey Bennet and damaging a door belonging to her. The case was adjourned for a hearing when witnesses will be called to establish the facts of the case.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said the Crown’s case was that it had been a sustained attack with multiple punches.

Haworth also threw a vacuum cleaner at his partner before punching a window so hard that it smashed. Broken glass from the window hit Miss Bennet in the face causing a cut.

“In his initial statement he said he was drunk and couldn’t remember what had happened,” said Miss Allan. “He now says he can remember and only admits punching the window which amounts to a reckless assault. The prosecution does not accept that version of events.”

Imran Hussain, defending, said Haworth said both parties had been drinking.

“He denies assaulting her in the way that has been described,” said Mr Hussain