A FATHER who headbutted his partner in front of a young child has been jailed for 22 weeks.

At Bolton Magistrates Court, District Judge Jonathan Finestein heard how Gareth Edgington attacked Lindsey Derbyshire on November 3 last year, causing swelling and minor injuries to her face.

Steve Woodman, prosecuting, told the court that it was the third time he had assaulted her, and three weeks before he was also jailed for attacking his brother.

Edgington, aged 26, of Oxford Grove, Heaton, pleaded guilty to assaulting Ms Derbyshire, who has been his partner for eight years, and with whom he has three children.

Kimberley Morton, defending, said since the incident Edgington has lost his job as a warehouseman and understands the relationship is now over.

“He is remorseful,” she said.

Jailing him, District Judge Finestein told Edgington: “Your record is really appalling.

“Use of a headbutt is a deeply offensive form of assault. There is no option but an immediate custodial sentence.”