A man involved in a violent scuffle with his partner, which involved a knife, has been given a 22-month jail term.
Carlisle Crown Court heard today how an argument erupted between Brian Harold, 42, and his now ex-girlfriend at her city home on February 7.
Both were heavily under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
During the row — over a can of drink — a violent scuffle broke out. This then involved a knife which had earlier been used to prepare illegal substances taken by the pair.
The woman suffered cuts to her head from the blade, one cut to her finger and some bruising to her knee. She barricaded herself in a toilet in fear of Harold as she called police.
Harold, who also suffered facial injuries, was initially charged with unlawful wounding but pleaded guilty to a lesser alternative charge of affray on an agreed basis.
The woman later told police Harold had flipped in a manner she had never previously seen, and of her being petrified of him.
A barrister said during his sentencing hearing that he regretted the incident and his part in it. He had been taking training courses while remanded in custody and was keen to build a better life for himself.
Judge Michael Fanning heard Harold, previously of Silloth Street, Carlisle, had an extensive criminal record, dating back 28 years, which feature 113 past offences.
The judge imposed a 22-month jail term and banned Harold from having any contact with the woman for three years.
