AN angry young dad assaulted his partner -- and then said he would only leave once she had shown him some respect, a court was told.

Burnley magistrates heard how engineer Simon Clark, 23, had called the mother of his child "cocky with a big mouth" and pushed her onto the floor.

He then struck her in the face and smashed her mobile telephone against the wall.

Their 19-month-old child was crying and very upset and victim Michelle Green was left with bruises.

Clark, who already has a conviction for attacking Miss Green, was given a community order with a six-month curfew between 7.30pm and 6am, every night.

He was also fined £100 with £150 compensation and £75 costs. The defendant, of Accrington Road, Burnley, admitted assault and damage.

David Macro, prosecuting, said the defendant and victim's five-year relationship was off and on because of Clark's violent nature.

Mr Macro said the victim told Clark to leave and he said he would once she had shown him some respect.

The defendant then struck Miss Green near her ear and threw her mobile phone against the wall.

Richard Taylor, defending, said: "It does appear this couple get on better when they are not living together and that's how things are going to be in the future."