A MAN who broke his girlfriend's arm during a violent row in front of their young daughter has walked free from court.

Thomas Welch said he accidentally "trampled" on his partner as he tried to get to his feet after they fell over.

Teesside Crown Court heard today (Monday, May 20)  how the couple had grappled on a bed after Welch followed her upstairs.

The argument blew up last November as they tried to patch up their ailing eight-year relationship, said prosecutor Sue Jacobs.

Welch, 29, from Darlington, became angry when his girlfriend would not hand over her car keys - because he was not insured.

The court heard how their young daughter was left traumatised after seeing her parents fight in their home.

Her grandfather told how he arrived at the house to find his daughter injured and the girl rocking on a bed in a state of shock.

He said she was gasping for breath and crying, and looked exhausted. Her mother had bruises and a fractured arm.

Welch, of Geneva Road, admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and received a four-month suspended jail term.

Judge George Moorhouse also ordered him to undergo 12 months of supervision and carry out 150 hours of unpaid work.