A WOMAN was head butted by her estranged partner when he turned up uninvited at her home where she was having drinks with friends.

Blackburn magistrates heard Andrew George Taylor stayed at the scene and waited for the police to arrive after the unprovoked attack.

Taylor, 31, of George Street, Haslingden, pleaded guilty to assault. He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison suspended for 12 months and ordered to complete 25 days rehabilitation activity requirement and pay £100 compensation, £85 costs and £115 victim surcharge. He was made subject to a restraining order for 12 months.

Philippa White, prosecuting, said the two had been partners for nine years before the relationship broke down.

The victim was at home with friends when the door opened and Taylor walked in.

"They were arguing and then, without warning, he head butted her to the bridge of the nose," said Mrs White.

Gareth Price, defending, said his client was immediately apologetic.

"He reacted to a comment made during the argument which he thought was inappropriate," said Mr Price. "It was a long relationship and the break down brought emotional issues."