AN attacker who assaulted his girlfriend when she returned home from a drunken night out was spared jail yesterday.

Glen Fisk, 26, punched Hannah Metcalfe in the face during a row at their Sunderland home in July 24.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how as a result of the blow Miss Metcalfe fell to the ground and banged her head.

She was taken to hospital with multiple bruising to her head and face as well as injuries to her arms from where he had grabbed her.

The court heard how the row had calmed down by the time police arrived.

Fisk, of Maplewood Avenue, Marley Potts, Sunderland, admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Defence barrister Bob Spragg said: "Mr Fisk's own childhood was blighted with domestic violence.

"As is so often the case, here we have history repeating itself."

Mr Spragg said Fisk is "ashamed and embarrassed" by what he did and realises he destroyed the relationship as a result.

Mr Spragg said Fisk, who has a string of previous convictions for a variety of offences, is keen to address his problems and change his behaviour in future.

Mr Recorder Anton Lodge gave Fisk, who has been in custody since the attack, a one-year jail sentence, suspended for two years.

Fisk must also attend a domestic violence programme and be supervised by the probation service for two years.