ANDREW Harrison went in search of his partner of seven years when she stormed out of their home following a row, a court was told.

And Blackburn magistrates heard the couple could not agree on what happened next and a special court hearing would have to be held to decide the facts.

Harrison, 23, of Parklands Way, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to assault. The case was adjourned so that evidence could be given as to the extent of the assault.

The prosecution alleged that Deborah Higginson had been dragged out of a friend's house by her collar and repeatedly punched and kicked.

Her face banged against a wall as she was dragged un a ginnel. She was then thrown into her car and punched in the face before Harrison got in the driver's seat and set off.

David Macro, prosecuting, said Miss Higginson was so frightened about what might happen that she jumped out of the car when it was travelling at about 20 mph.

Robin Phoenix, defending, said it was fair to say the couple had a rather tempestuous relationship. But he said his client did not accept that there had been repeated punches and kicks.