A PENSIONER who keeps attacking his partner has been sent on a domestic violence programme.

Burnley magistrates herad how David Taylor, 66, slapped her in the face in the latest assault, which was committed while he was subject to a conditional discharge for beating the same victim.

She had made a retraction statement and had attended court with the defendant.

Taylor, said to have problems with drink and his temper, had now struck three times, the court was told. In 2006 he was given the conditional discharge after punching the victim twice and leaving her with a gash to the bridge of her nose.

Taylor, of Blackburn Road, Haslingden, admitted assault by beating on September 14.

He was given a community order with a two-year domestic violence programme and supervision.He must also pay £60 costs.

Geoff Ireland, defending, said Taylor and his partner were reconciled.

He said Taylor's problems lay in excessive drinking. He had cirrhosis of the liver and the victim had been working hard to help him reduce the alcohol he had.

He continued: "He does need some help with drinking and anger and the domestic violence programme would seem to be right up his street."