AN alcoholic ‘wallowing in self pity’ sent his ex-partner a string of abusive text messages, a court heard.

Burnley magistrates were told how Adam Bell sent a total of 11 messages on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. At first, he told Keeley Greaves he loved her but, when she ignored him, he became abusive and called her a bad mother.

Bell, 36, was flouting a restraining order, as well as breaching community orders imposed for sending offensive messages. The defendant, of Chapelhouse Road, Nelson, admitted harassment, in breach of a restraining order, between last December 25 and December 27.

He was given a 12-month community order, with supervision and a two-month curfew, daily between 7pm and 6am. He must pay a £60 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

Charlotte Crane, prosecuting, said Bell was made the subject of the restraining order last October 19 for sending malicious communications.

Nick Cassidy, for Bell, said he was a registered alcoholic and had been suffering with mental health issues.

The relationship between the defendant and Ms Greaves ended last October. Bell apologised for what he had done.

Mr Cassidy said Bell was extremely fearful about the potential consequences of his actions.

He said: “The defendant has made attempts on his life and required hospital treatment.He has sought help from his GP in relation to his suicidal tendencies and depression.”