An unemployed painter and decorator carried out a “terrifying” attack on his partner during a holiday in the Highlands last Christmas.
Inverness Sheriff Court was told that 38-year-old Craig Redford had kicked and punched Fiona Harrison after they returned to their holiday chalet in Auldearn on December 27.
Redford, of East Forth Street, Sellardike, Fife, had travelled north for a four-day stay to visit his partner’s father.
Fiscal depute David Morton told Sheriff Mark Stewart QC: “They were out drinking and returned separately with Ms Harrison returning first.
“They were in the conservatory area when Redford began screaming at her. Then he began kicking her on the body and punching her on the head.
“She curled up in the foetal position to try and protect herself but he continued to punch her. She was screaming and shouting for her father and managed to alert him.
“Redford left and phoned the police himself, giving the operator a full admission of what happened and where. Ms Harrison was taken to hospital where she was treated for a swollen hand, a burst nose and bruising to her face.
“But the injuries were not serious and she made a full recovery.” Mr Morton added.
Defence solicitor Rory Gowans said the relationship, which had been on-going for about six years, was now over.
He added: “It was turbulent from the start. He was a stay-at-home father and became diagnosed with depression. With that and the combination of alcohol he snapped and lost his cool.
“He knows this is a serious matter despite the fact he has no previous convictions.” Mr Gowans added.
Sheriff Stewart agreed it was a serious matter.
“But at least he took a responsible attitude and contacted the police. What occurred was disgraceful. It must have had some kind of trigger and it may be something that was bottled up in the course of the relationship.
“It must have been a terrifying and frightening experience for her. He is a man of some skill and I consider unpaid work in the community as the best way of dealing with this.”
Redford was sentenced to carry out 80 hours unpaid work.
