A MAN who broke a love-rival’s jaw when he saw him kissing his partner has been jailed for 16 months.

Adam Shears, 27, lost his temper when he saw Daniel Hart outside the Garden Grill takeaway with the woman, who Shears is now in a relationship with, and punched him in the face.

Preston Crown Court heard Shears, of Hillside Avenue, Blackburn, and his partner had been on a night out in Darwen on October 14 when they met Mr Hart, who was out with a female friend.

Shears’ partner asked Mr Hart if he and his friend were a couple, and said she was not in a relationship with Shears.

All four went to the Level One Nightclub together and when they left at around 2.45am, Mr Hart exchanged social media details with Shears’ partner and kissed her, at her request.

When Shears saw Mr Hart kissing the woman he made a threat, but then said he was joking, the court heard.

As Mr Hart walked away, Shears punched him to the side of his jaw, causing him to stagger back.

Karen Brookes, prosecuting, said: “Mr Hart returned home and went to work the following day but he was in difficulties with the pain in his mouth.

“He visited Royal Blackburn Hospital on October 17 when it was established his jaw had been broken in three places.”

Mr Hart underwent surgery to insert metal plates and screws into his jaw, which will remain there permanently.

Marc Stephenson, defending Shears, said since the attack Shears has cut down on his drinking.

He said: “He doesn’t go out anymore. He is in a settled relationship with his partner Emily and therefore doesn’t go out and drink the way he did on this occasion.” Shears pleaded guilty to wounding.

Judge Ian Leeming said the attack was so serious he had no option but to sent Shears straight to prison.