A TOTTON man has narrowly avoided a prison sentence for domestic violence against his partner.

Nicholas Robert George Massey, 38, pleaded guilty causing fear of violence to the woman between December 1 2016 and July 7 this year.

The charge said Massey had "assaulted the victim on numerous occasions and threatened violence towards her."

Massey, formerly of Swan Lane, Winchester, now living in Dickens Dell, Totton, was jailed for 18 weeks by magistrates in Basingstoke. But the sentence was suspended for 18 months.

They also imposed a community order with a rehabilitation activity requirement for 25 days.

A restraining order will prevent him from having contact with the victim, except via a property management company or solicitors to arrange for the return of her possessions.

Massey was also ordered to a victim surcharge of £115 and £85 costs.