A DOLGELLAU man has been jailed for 18 months after assaulting his 16-year-old girlfriend in a ‘sustained’ attack that lasted over five hours.

Steven Blake, 21, of Smithfield Street, Dolgellau, admitted assault causing actual bodily harm. A seven-year restraining order bans him from contacting the victim.

“You need to learn from this experience,” Judge Huw Rees told him at Caernarfon crown court.

The judge said the victim was “particularly vulnerable” and Blake had a record for assaults including one against her.

“It’s nothing to be proud of, your list of previous convictions,” the judge remarked.

Judge Rees said Blake had caused multiple bruises to the girl and he had failed to take advantage of opportunities given to him by courts.

His ADHD was exacerbated by the use of drugs.

The judge added: "This is a serious case of domestic violence.” The time had come for Blake to leave the teenager alone.

Prosecuting barrister Ffion Tomos said the victim had been slapped after a row about a dirty sink.

Later Blake had been challenged by her about text messages and the teen had been kicked and punched in a prolonged attack.

Police had been alerted after the youngster left the flat in her pyjamas and went to a shop.

“Her injuries could have been far worse,” the prosecutor added.

Elen Owen, defending, said Blake had mental health problems, exacerbated by the use of drugs.

Counsel added: "He wants to say sorry. This is a cycle of using drugs and alcohol and he wants to stop it."