A MAN attacked his partner in the street in a row over money.

Blackburn magistrates heard Steven John McGuinness grabbed her bag and then repeatedly punched her to the head.

The owner of a nearby cafe came out and intervened and a woman from a hairdressers took the victim into her shop while they waited for the police.

McGuinness, 52, of Dunoon Drive, BLackburn, pleaded guilty to assault. He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 30 days Rehabiitation Activity Requirement. He was ordered to pay £50 compensation, £85 costs and £114 victim surcharge.

Tess Kenyon, prosecuting, said the couple had rowed because she had a picture of an actor from the TV series "Vikings" on her phone. He said she knew he was insecure and had the photo to upset him.

Miss Kenyon said the victim felt uncomfortable and asked for some money so she could catch a bus to her dad's.

McGuinness gave her some money but as he was walking her to the bus stop asked for some of it back so he could buy tobbacco.

"He grabbed her bag and then started punching her to the head with his fists," said Miss Kenyon. "She says the relationship is now over."

Mark Williams, defending, said his client knew the way he conducted himself was totally unacceptable.