A BOYFRIEND who sent text messages to his partner threatening to 'stab her in the head', has been ordered to complete a programme teaching him how to 'build relationships'.

Simon Peter Cade, aged 22, of Alstonfield Road, Dovecot, Liverpool, sent texts calling girlfriend Jenny Tansey 'anorexic', and 'a scrubber'.

He also told the victim, who lives in Bewsey, 'I'll smash your head in', 'I'll stamp on your head', and 'it's no wonder your dad hits you'.

Halton Magistrates Court heard on Tuesday how Cade and Ms Tansey have experienced an 'on-off' relationship for around 19 months.

Alison Warburton, prosecuting, said when the phone messages were sent, Cade was banned from contacting the victim after being arrested over a separate allegation.

"They did get back together despite those conditions," said Mrs Warburton.

"On the 5th August there was an argument between them, and they were exchanging text messages.

"There were 72 pages of text messages."

Cade was arrested and admitted to police he sent the messages.

In a victim impact statement read out in court, Ms Tansey said she is now scared to leave her home.

"I'm stressed and fearful of going back to my flat in case Simon comes to my flat.

"I'm anxious when I leave in case I see him in the street.

"I'm unable to sleep and have lost two stone."

Cade, who is on benefits, pleaded guilty to sending by public communication an offensive matter, on August 9.

The defendant has three previous convictions for six offences, including assault.

Defending, Gary Schooler, said there had been a series of texts with abusive comments on both sides.

"He says his emotions were manipulated by the complainant," said Mr Schooler.

"There was a loss of composure over a short space of time.

"This defendant can behave himself."

Magistrates sentenced Cade to an 18 month supervision order.

He will undergo an 18 month behaviour programme, and pay £165 in fines and costs.