A MAN who was subject to a restraining order made an abusive phone call to his ex-partner.

Blackburn magistrates heard Mark Lee Moorcroft threatened to "smash up" her brother and said he would kill his former partner, the mother of his child, with his bare hands.

Moorcroft, 33, of Lancaster Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to conveying a threatening message and breach of a restraining order. He was remanded on bail for the preparation of a pre-sentence report.

Scott Parker, prosecuting, said when the victim answered the call she could tell Moorcroft had been drinking.

He made the threats towards her and her brother and then said she was a bad mother.

"She was shocked and upset and had no idea where the abuse had come from," said Mr Parker. "She said he had no right to speak to her like that and put her in fear."

Gareth Price, defending, said the victim did not contact the police until the following day.

"She was clearly distressed by the call but I would suggest it was not at the level of really serious harm," said Mr Price.

"For reasons he can't explain, having taken drink, he made this call. He had no intention of carrying out any of the things he said."