STEPHEN Streeter lashed out at his partner during a row over children in their Darwen home. But his hopes of speedy reconciliation were dashed when the matter came to court.

David Macro, prosecuting, said the victim, Caroline Mitchell, had told police the relationship was over. "She has said she is not prepared to tolerate that kind of behaviour and won't have her children living in that kind of environment.

"As far as she is concerned the relationship is over."

Elliot Taylforth, defending, said the revelation by the prosecution had come as a shock to his client. "He was hoping that once these matters were dealt with there would be a chance of reconciliation," said Mr Taylforth.

Streeter, 34, of St Cecelia Street, Great Harwood, pleaded guilty to assault. The case was adjourned until September 28 and Streeter was remanded on bail on condition that he does not contact Miss Mitchell or go to her home, except when accompanied by a police officer, to collect his belongings.

Mr Macro said that Streeter had first known Miss Mitchell 12 years ago and he was the father of her eldest child. They had split up 10 years ago and she had two more children between then and them getting back together six months ago. On the day of the incident, the children had been playing upstairs and there was some trouble.

Streeter shouted at Miss Mitchell not to take such a cocky attitude with him and lunged forward, catching her in the face. She ran from the house with her nose bleeding and phoned the police.

Mr Taylforth said that on the day Streeter felt his private space was being invaded. As well as Miss Michell's children there were two others, who she was looking after, in the house. There had been some falling out and the children had to be put in separate rooms.

"He wanted some peace and quiet and with five children running around he simply wasn't getting it," added Mr Taylforth.