A MAN became violent towards his wife after he set up his own business and could not cope with the stress, a court heard yesterday.

John Freeman, 28, of Pendower Street, Darlington, admitted assaulting his wife, Elaine, when he appeared before South Durham magistrates' .

A charge of stalking his wife was withdrawn.

James Thomas, prosecuting, said that Mrs Freeman had told him she had a very good relationship with her husband until he set up his own joinery business.

"Thereafter that has seemed to impinge on how he reacted towards her," he said.

Mr Thomas said that Freeman had thrown his wife against a fence, injuring her wrist.

Chris Bunting, mitigating, said his client was genuinely ashamed and planned to give up his business because he knew it was affecting his temper.

He said the couple, who have three children, were not living together but were trying to sort out their problems.

Sentencing was adjourned until December 11.