A MAN who repeatedly attacked and belittled his partner over almost a decade has avoided jail.

David Arundale, of Dart Walk, Winsford, appeared at Chester Crown Court on February 8 to be sentenced on a charge of engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.

The court heard the 34-year-old made his partner's life a misery for more than nine years, from January 1, 2014, and July 14 last year.

During that time, while in Northwich, Arundale repeatedly assaulted the victim, looked through her phone and belittled her by calling her names.

After being charged with the offence, he pleaded guilty at a previous court hearing on January 2.

Returning to the dock on February 8, Arundale was handed a 14-month sentence, suspended for two years, by district judge Richard Clews.

He must also complete 100 hours of unpaid work, 30 days of the Building Better Relationships programme and 20 days of rehabilitation activity.

Arundale was also hit with a five-year restraining order, banning him from directly or indirectly contacting his victim and another woman.

As part of the restraining order, he is also prohibited from entering two specified address in Northwich.

An order was also made for the defendant to pay £250 in court costs as well as a surcharge of £100.