A MAN attacked a woman after drinking half a bottle of whisky, a court has heard

Christopher John Evans appeared for sentencing before magistrates in Hereford on February 17 after pleading guilty to assault by beating on January 25.

Prosecutor Ralph Robyns Landricombe said police had been called to Evans' home by the victim at 8.29pm on January 23.

She said an argument which had started after Evans had woken her had turned violent as he pulled her hair, punched her in the face, poured a drink over her, grabbed her, and threw a glass at her.

Evans, who was found near the house by police, was arrested.

In interview, he said the pair had been in bed talking about marriage when the victim "lost it" and slapped him.

The court heard Evans had admitted grabbing her, throwing a glass at her, pushing her and telling her he would "pulverise" her, claiming he had done it so she would not hit him again, before going out to clear his head.

Evans, who told officers he had drunk half a bottle of whisky while the victim had drunk a bottle of gin that day, denied punching her, grabbing her, or pulling her hair, and said he would not have wasted drink by throwing it over her.

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Katherine Maynereid, for Evans, said the 65-year-old and the victim clearly had ongoing problems in their relationship, but argued against a restraining order.

"Alcohol is clearly a problem for both parties, but he tells me he has stopped drinking, which will help with his offending," Mrs Maynereid said.

"The victim is currently on an order regarding an assault on Evans and so there has already been a period of separation, but they are going to be getting back together."

Evans, of River View, Ross-on-Wye, was handed an 18-month community order and fined £100. He must also pay costs of £135 and a £95 victim surcharge.