A MAN who rowed with his partner over child contact left her house but returned minutes later and smashed a window.

Blackburn magistrates heard at the time of the offence Joseph Arnfield was drunk and his former partner believed he was under the influence of drugs.

Arnfield, 27, of Birtwistle Street, Great Harwood, pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a window. He was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £100 compensation. He was also made subject to a restraining order for 12 months.

Passing sentence deputy district judge Stuart Boyd said there were often difficulties when a relationship ends and children were involved.

"The reality is you can't behave in this manner when there are disagreements, you are causing problems for yourself," he said.

Ruby Mckeague, prosecuting, said when Arnfield turned up at his ex-partner's home there was an argument about child contact.

"At the time he was drunk and she thought he was under the influence of drugs as well, which was why she didn't want him at the house," said Miss Mckeague.

"She has requested a restraining order because she doesn't want him attending at her house."

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said there was an ongoing dispute over child access.

"Attending in drink is not the answer and he realises that," said Mr Taylor.

"He lost his temper when she refused to let him in."