JAMES Deary bombarded his former partner with abusive text messages on her mobile phone after she broke off their relationship.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Deary was upset after his girlfriend admitted she had been involved with other men during their time together.

Deary, 31, of Gloucester Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to harassing Jackie O'Neil. He was given a conditional discharge for two years and made subject to a two-year restraining order. He was also ordered to pay £50 costs.

Jonathon Taylor, defending, said that after Miss O'Neil's revelations there had been an argument during which she said he was not going to have any contact with their one-year-old daughter.

"She moved home and the only way he had of contacting her was via her mobile phone," said Mr Taylor.