A MAN who brandished a kitchen knife at his partner in front of their children was jailed for two-and-a-half years yesterday.

David Hagen, 40, threatened to kill Julie Naisby in front of their three-year-old and three-month-old children when their relationship ended last August.

Ms Naisby fled with the youngsters to another room and called the police to have him arrested.

The father-of-six, who has convictions for violence, including violence towards Miss Naisby, told officers he had done nothing wrong, but later admitted making a threat to kill and common assault.

Judge Peter Cox told Hagen, of Shetland Court, Sunderland: "The courts have a duty to protect women in this situation and protect families in this sort of situation.

"I would be failing in my public duty if I did not impose a substantial prison sentence upon you."

Ian Dixon, in mitigation, said Hagen accepted that the relationship was over and he would be making no attempt at reconciliation.