A BINMAN has dodged prison after he admitted sexually assaulting his ex-partner in front of her child.

Paul Smith, 46, of Hall Cross Road, Lowerhouses, pleaded guilty to two charges of assault.

Leeds Crown Court heard the incident was sparked when the Huddersfield man’s ex-partner told him their relationship was over on October 30 last year.

On hearing the news Smith asked his partner for sex but she refused.

He went into a rage, throwing her to the ground and pinning her down.

He lay on top of her and pulled off her pyjama bottoms – stripping her naked from the waist down.

The court heard that the victim thought she was about to be raped.

She was not but Smith unleashed a tirade of abuse, calling her a “whore” and a “prostitute” while also physically abusing her.

He struck her across the face causing her nose to bleed and pushed her back, causing her to bang her head.

Her injuries included bruised legs and face and a pain in her ear.

The court was also told the victim’s young son had walked in on the assault.

When arrested, Smith admitted he had a temper and that he had committed domestic violence on his partner before.

Neil Murphy, defending, said his client conceded he was drunk during the attack and that he did not appreciate what was right and wrong in a consensual relationship.

But he said he was at low risk of re-offending and was being supported by his former wife, who he was married to before the partner he assaulted.

Her Honour, Judge Sally Cahill QC, said the fact that a child was present during the violence was an aggravating factor.

But she said he had shown considerable remorse and so would suspend his sentence.

Smith was given 11 months, suspended for two years.

He must complete a supervision order, including courses about domestic violence and alcohol abuse.

He was ordered to pay £1,000 compensation to his victim, £600 court costs and was subjected to a restraining order banning him from the street where the victim lives.

He must also sign the sex offenders register for 10 years.