A murder suspect told police he was a "battered husband" at the hands of his young girlfriend.

Leslie Purvis, 38, is accused of killing Kelly Riseborough, 23, who died after a "prolonged, violent assault" at their home in Palgrove Road, Sunderland, on April 22 last year.

But Newcastle Crown Court was told yesterday that the former seaman was the victim of violence by the young mother.

During a police interview after Ms Riseborough's body was found, Mr Purvis said: "You've got it the wrong way around here, I'm the battered husband."

Mr Purvis said he accepted his aggressive attempt to resuscitate her may have led to her death, but denied intending to kill her.

Mr Purvis admits striking Ms Riseborough during a row on the night of her death, but denies murder.

The trial continues.