A NEWPORT man who punched his ex-partner to the face was sentenced yesterday.

Newport magistrates heard that Jamie Gibbons, of Oakley Street, hit Janine Channing while trying to get her phone off her to find out if she was seeing someone else.

Prosecutor Rob Simkins told magistrates sitting at Newport Crown Court the 35- year-old defendant had split up with his then partner three months previously.

Mr Simkins said Gibbons went to her house on September 14 after he had been drinking, and the pair watched television until 2.30am. Ms Channing then went to bed and Gibbons later followed, which is when the incident happened, he said.

Mr Simkins said it left her with bruising to the left side of her eye, and to the chest and upper left leg.

Gibbons pleaded guilty to assault and committing a further offence while subject to a conditional discharge.

Defending, Robert Wade said the latter incident involved Gibbons throwing a can of beans against a wall while he was having an argument with another person, and it rebounded, hitting them. Mr Wade said his client had made full admissions and was soon to start work.

Gibbons was given a 12- month community order, made to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work, and ordered to pay £50 compensation to Ms Channing and £85 costs.

He is also subject to a restraining order concerning the victim for the next two years.