A MAN struggled to cope after discovering text messages showing his partner was having an affair, a court heard.

Kevin Lucas, 42, bombarded his 'ex' with text messages, abusive phone calls and silent phone calls over a three-month period despite a warning from police.

And when Beverley Crompton and her new partner went to confront him about the situation, Lucas threatened them with a baseball bat.

Then he pushed her in front of a moving car which had to swerve to avoid her, Blackburn magistrates were told.

Lucas, of Alpha Street, Darwen, admitted harassment and using threatening behaviour.

He was made subject to a community supervision order for 12 months and ordered to pay £60 costs.

The magistrates also imposed a restraining order prohibiting Lucas from having any contact with Miss Crompton or her new partner, David Jackson.

Sian Hall, defending, told a previous hearing that Lucas had no previous convictions and was absolutely amazed by his behaviour.

"He is full of remorse and ashamed to be appearing in court today," said Miss Hall.