A STUDENT who threatened his former girlfriend, has been given a chance to learn how to control his temper but warned a long prison term would follow if he did not take it.

Burnley Crown Court heard how Jason Clegg, 27, twice telephoned mother-of-two Lisa Payton in temper, threatening her.

But he denied saying he would kill her.

The next day he went round to her home and damaged a back door and when he was arrested, found to have a hammer.

The defendant, of Willows Lane, Accrington, was put on probation for 18 months, told to attend a domestic violence perpetrators group, and placed under a restraining order for 18 months.

He was also ordered to pay £50 costs.

He had earlier admitted criminal damage and harassment, committed after the six week long relationship ended last summer.

Sentencing Clegg, Assistant Recorder David Hernandez said it was perfectly obvious Miss Payton, and no doubt her children, would have been extremely frightened and distressed.

The judge added he was prepared to take a chance with the defendant but stressed that if he breached the order, and came back before him, the sentence would be a lengthy term of custody.

Mark Stuart, defending, had earlier told the court although no physical violence was used and Clegg pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.