A BUILTH Wells supermarket worker assaulted his girlfriend and said to her “I’ll cut your head off”, a court heard.

Padrig Lovell, 38, of The Strand, Builth Wells, was sentenced for beating his girlfriend and damaging her property at Llandrindod Wells Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

Stephen Davies, prosecuting, told magistrates that they were in a relationship at the time.

On May 25 in Llanidloes, Lovell was walking around outside in circles, and his girlfriend allowed him into the house, Mr Davies said.

She moved some plant pots to make it easier for him to walk into the house, and then he threw a handbag at her, the court heard.

The woman then “barricaded” herself in her room, Mr Davies said.

Lovell said “I’ll cut your head off”, magistrates heard.

His girlfriend heard “thudding noises” and could hear plaster coming off the walls, so she went to find Lovell, the court heard.

He was in the kitchen and had broken the fridge door and a window, Mr Davies told magistrates.

Mike Davies, defending, told magistrates that the pre-sentence report, which was given to them, “makes quite sad reading”.

Lovell has problems with alcohol and drugs and had a difficult upbringing, Mr Davies said.

Magistrates sentenced Lovell to a two year community order, including 20 rehabilitation sessions and 100 hours of unpaid work.

He was also ordered to pay £400 in compensation to his victim, as well as £85 towards court costs and and a victim surcharge of £85.

He was also given a two year restraining order relating to his victim.