David Buckley, who recently moved to Surrey from Meads Street, Eastbourne, appeared before the town's magistrates and pleaded guilty to assault by beating.

Claire Prodger, prosecuting, told the court Buckley's partner had asked him to leave their home during the afternoon of March 21 and the defendant had returned home drunk.

Magistrates were told he had consumed four cans of Special Brew followed by a pint of Guinness before the argument with his partner.

On returning to his Meads Street home at around 6.30pm, Buckley was told his mother had phoned and would be angry with him.

The defendant became annoyed by his partner's comments and assaulted her in the kitchen.

Ms Prodger said, "He came over to her and headbutted her in the forehead, which nearly made her pass out with the force."

Magistrates were shown a photograph of the mother-of-three, who sustained a bruise on her head as a result of the assault.

Police arrived at the address and spoke to Buckley's partner before arresting him on the stairs of the property.

In police interview he said he 'went mental' and asked officers 'how do you section yourself?'.

Buckley told the police he recalled a discussion but could not remember much about the incident.

The defendant's partner withdrew her statement on March 27 as she hoped to 'work through his alcohol difficulties'.

Buckley is currently living in Greyhound Close, Surrey, due to bail conditions which prevent him from having any contact with his partner.

Terry Ballard, defending, told magistrates, "He has pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and co-operated as much as he was able to with his limited recollection.

"He knows there are issues with him and the relationship and is eager to address them."

Magistrates adjourned the case for a full pre-sentence report. Buckley will reappear at Eastbourne Magistrates Court on April 21.