A ‘WIFE beater’ who has now attacked four ex-partners in four years walked free from court – and did not even own up to the latest beating.

Jobless Paul Anthony Bamber, 23, set about young mum Rachel Boyd as she was on the school run, grabbing her around the neck on a canal bank.

He was squeezing so hard she was struggling to breathe, a court was told.

He told the victim: “If you go to the police, you won’t be able to speak.”

Burnley Magistrates’ Court was told how her child was so distressed, the youngster ran off to try and find help.

Bamber, of Wesley Street, Brierfield, had denied assault by beating on May 29,.

But he was convicted after a trial, in front of a district judge.

Bamber was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, suspended for a year, with supervision and 60 hours unpaid work.

He was ordered to pay £50 compensation, and £50 costs.