A man who kicked and punched his girlfriend has been jailed for three-and-a-half years.

Andrew Jones, 35, of New England Road, Brighton, was jailed at Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday having pleaded guilty to causing actual bodily harm to his 40-year old ex-partner at her then-address in Hove in December last year.

Jones had subjected her to a prolonged and violent attack in her flat, kicking and punching her and leaving her with severe bruising and cuts all over her face and body.

Detective Sergeant Joel Brooks said: "The first report to us came from the ambulance service who had been called to her workplace by colleagues after she went into work with injuries all over her body.

"When officers went to her address to check on her welfare she would not let them in and they were so concerned for her safety that they forced entry and found Jones present with her. Despite her initially saying he was not the offender, officers arrested him.

"Careful and sensitive police work resulted in her eventually disclosing what had happened."

he victim, who no longer lives in Hove and wishes to remain anonymous, said; "I am overjoyed and relieved at the result and work of all the officers involved who have helped me escape a horrific and violent relationship, so that I can rebuild my life again.

"I'd also like to thank workers at RISE, the local domestic abuse charity, who were also really helpful and supportive."

Detective Inspector Ian Still said; "Sussex Police and partners have an ongoing campaign, including advertising and local events, aimed at encouraging all victims of domestic abuse to report incidents earlier before the abuse escalates, and at raising awareness of White Ribbon UK, an international organisation working to involve men in opposing violence and abuse against women.”