A NEWPORT man who stormed round his ex-partner's house with a knife in his pocket — after phoning her more than 80 times — has been sentenced. 

Ben Burrows, of Ash Road, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates on Friday.

At a previous hearing, the 33-year-old admitted two counts of harassment without violence, possession of a knife in public, and obstructing a police officer, in Newport, on April 23.

Prosecutor, Liz Miller, told the court a drunken Burrows had attempted to call the victim — his ex-partner — in excess of 80 times on the day. 

The court heard he had also tried calling the victim's friends, resulting in them blocking his number. 

Ms Miller said the victim contacted police, who attended the home address.

She said Burrows called the victim persistently while officers were in attendance, and was agitated and verbally aggressive toward officers when they answered the phone.

The court heard he was given a warning by officers over the phone, and when he turned up at the front door shortly thereafter, he was arrested. 

Ms Miller said Burrows resisted arrest and made an attempt to climb a fence. 

The court heard further police assistance was requested and Burrows was detained. 

Ms Miller said Burrows was found in possession of a blade — a serrated knife — seized from his left trouser pocket.

Asked why he had a knife, Burrows told police he had been cutting bread at home.

Oscar Vincent, defending, said Burrows' offending behaviour occurred over a limited period of time, and was not a prolonged campaign of harassment. 

He said the pair had been in a ten year relationship — had a child together — and it was Burrows' first serious relationship. 

Mr Vincent told the bench the relationship had come to an end but Burrows felt he had been given the impression the relationship could resume.

The court heard Burrows had been drinking on the day, having attended an event with a friend, but had been abstinent from alcohol in the six months prior. 

In police interview, Burrows described being ashamed and disgusted by his own behaviour. 

Mr Vincent said Burrows had been teetotal since.

Burrows was given a 12-week prison term, suspended for 12 months, to include 15 rehabilitation days.

He was made subject of a 12-month restraining order, with costs of £85 and a £128 surcharge.