A PETRIFIED woman was injured with a knife as her ex-partner “flipped” and turned violent during a drink and drug binge.

Brian Harold, 42, had been in a two-year relationship with the woman.

This, Carlisle Crown Court heard, was fuelled by alcohol and substance misuse.

On 7th February at an address in the city’s Morton area, the couple were involved in an altercation while “heavily under the influence”.

“An argument over a can of drink,” explained prosecutor Gerard Rogerson, “which descended into violence and a scuffle.

“A knife was involved. It had previously been used in the preparation of drugs they had previously consumed that evening.”

Harold’s recollection was affected by the alcohol and drugs he had taken.

The woman also recalled little of what took place but remarked that Harold “was on something of a hair trigger in relation to any criticism”.

She sustained injuries. “They are mercifully quite light. Cuts to the area of her head and some bruising to her knee,” said Mr Rogerson. “Also a cut to the back of her finger.”

The woman barricaded herself in a toilet as she called police.

Harold, who also suffered facial injuries, was initially charged with unlawful wounding but pleaded guilty to a lesser alternative charge of affray on an agreed basis.

The woman later told police Harold had “flipped” in a manner she had never previously seen. “She did comment that she was petrified when the knife became involved in the incident. She does support the making of a restraining order,” said Mr Rogerson.

The woman had described the relationship being over and stated: “I do not want him hounding me when he gets out of prison.”

Both she and Harold’s barrister spoke of his behaviour being negatively affected since being knocked down by a vehicle travelling at 60mph in 2022. He was still awaiting surgery while the intensity of his drink and drug use had increased in the intervening period.

“The defendant regrets this incident and takes full responsibility for his part in it,” said Ms McCullough. “He accepts this would have been a frightening incident.”

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Of his remand in custody for the past few months, the barrister added: “During that time he has weaned himself away from alcohol and from the use of illicit drugs. He has been undertaking extensive training courses covering a wide spectrum of issues.”

She added: “He hopes in future to be able to build a better life for himself.”

Judge Michael Fanning heard Harold, previously of Silloth Street, Carlisle, had an extensive criminal record, dating back 28 years, which feature 113 past offences. The judge imposed a 22-month jail term and banned Harold from having any contact with the woman for three years.