A MAN attacked his girlfriend in Clitheroe town centre after he had tagged along on a girls' night out.

Blackburn magistrates heard John Addison Brockbank, 34, punched Christine Robinson in the head and face during a prolonged attack.

The court heard she suffered a 7cm cut to her head that needed 10 staples, as well as extensive bruising.

Brockbank, of Buckingham Drive, Read, admitted assault causing actual bodily harm and was given a 12-month conditional discharge.

He was also ordered to pay £300 in compensation and £65 costs.

Sophie Lorimer, prosecuting, said the couple had lived together since July and there had been several unreported violent incidents towards Miss Robinson.

On the night of the attack, she had gone out with two friends, as usual for a Sunday night.

"He didn't like her going out without him and decided to accompany her," said Mrs Lorimer. "He was getting more agitated as the evening wore on and eventually Miss Robinson decided to leave."

Brockbank followed his partner across town complaining she thought more of her friends than him.

When she reached Albion Street he dragged her to the floor by her coat and began punching her

She tried to get up but he hit her again.

Miss Robinson was later taken to hospital by ambulance.

Lee Hammond, defending, said Brockbank was a man of previous good character and was deeply ashamed of his violent actions.

He said Brockbank had not drunk since the incident on December 5 and had sought counselling to help with his problems.

"He hopes that in time a reconciliation can take place," added Mr Hammond.