A woman who fled to Canada to escape a violent partner saved him from jail yesterday because they were back together.

Angela Bennett and Paul Clark, 37, had an 18-year relationship, and three teenage children, said Graham Reeds, prosecuting at Teesside Crown Court.

But when the relationship broke down last year, Clark refused to accept that it was over and repeatedly harassed her and her friend, Denise Llewellyn.

Mr Reeds said that on one occasion Clark phoned Ms Bennett and threatened to slit her throat.

Mr Reeds added: "She was so worried that she left the country for Canada, where her sister lives, and did not return until July 8."

However, the threats and harassment continued and police were forced to arrest Clark.

Clark, a cable puller, of Kent Avenue, Hartlepool, was given a 15-month sentence suspended for two years, and a five-year restraining order involving Ms Llewellyn, after he pleaded guilty to two charges of harassment.

Jamie Hill, defending, said that the relationship was continuing.