A MAN jailed for a violent assault on his partner admitted being in breach of a restraining order by meeting up with her after his release.

Blackburn magistrates heard the meetings were cordial but after one, at Blackburn Railway Station, she was bombarded with abusive and threatening text messages.

The court was told James Patrick McInerney accepted breaching the restraining order by meeting his former partner but denied all knowledge of the messages which were sent from his mother's phone.

McInerney, 33, of Hazel Close, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to breach of the restraining order. The case was adjourned for a hearing when evidence can be called to establish the facts and McInerney was remanded in custody.

Richard Prew, defending, said the basis of his client's plea was that since his release from prison he and his partner had been in contact.

"It was mutual and with her consent," said Mr Prew. "She confirms that she continued to see him hoping he had changed."

Mr Prew said McInerney lived with his mother and a brick had been put through her window.

"Members of his family believe it was his partner who was responsible and he thinks one of them has been using his mum's phone to send these messages and threats," said Mr Prew. "His mum is in court and confirms that several members of her family have ready access to her phone."