A 13-YEAR relationship which started when the partners were just 14 turned sour.

Blackburn magistrates heard Patrick James Gavin became controlling, checking his partner’s phone and refusing to allow her to use social media.

The court was told eventually Gavin used physical violence towards his partner.

Gavin, 27, of Rhoden Avenue, Oswaldtwistle, pleaded guilty to two charges of assault and one of engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour. He was committed in custody to Burnley Crown Court to be sentenced on December 11.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said the couple had known each other since childhood and their relationship started when they were 14.

“She now realises that he has been controlling her,” said Mr Robinson.

He said the first assault came on October 2 when Gavin was verbally abusive. “She had hold of the child when he spat at her and it landed on her and the child,” said Mr Robinson. “He grabbed her by the hair and threw her onto the bed before putting his teeth around her nose and starting to bite. He only stopped when the child started shouting mummy.”

Less than a week later Gavin grabbed his partner by the hair and pulled her over violently He then got a knife and threatened to kill himself.

Neil Howard, defending, said his client had struggled with the breakdown of the relationship.