A 50-year-old man has admitted assaulting his partner during a domestic incident.

William Hedley Graham appeared in court via video link from the prison and pleaded guilty to common assault on a female.

Prosecuting advocate Rebecca Cubbon told the court that the victim arrived home at Tynwald Street in Douglas on December 6.

Graham was said to have entered the property, where he was also living, and shouted: ’You are going to help me.’

The woman tried to leave but Graham got in front of her to stop her exit.

He then dragged her upstairs with her legs banging on the stairs as she shouted: ’Billy, please don’t do this.’

Graham then put his hand over her mouth to stop her screaming.

A witness outside the property heard the screaming and knocked on the door.

Graham then walked out and left in a van.

He was later arrested and taken to police headquarters.

During an interview, Graham told police that he had been in a relationship with the woman for 20 years and that they were also in business together.

He admitted they had had a heated argument.

The court heard that his last conviction was in 2017 for a public order offence.

Ms Cubbon said that further complaint statements had been made by the woman which were currently being investigated and involved two more allegations of assault and two of property damage.

Defence advocate Peter Taylor said that his client had hoped that the couple might get back together but had now been advised by a family member that it was over.

Mr Taylor said that Graham had not wanted to put the woman through a trial and had suffered anger issues since his mother died, but was looking for help with his temper.

The advocate said that his client had now spent two weeks in prison but a place at probation accommodation Tromode House was available, and his father was willing to provide a surety if he was granted bail.

He also said that the complainant in the case was not currently on the island and that all Graham’s bank cards were at her property.

High Bailiff Jayne Hughes refused bail, citing Graham’s previous convictions committed while on bail and a previous incident of failing to surrender.

The case was adjourned until December 31 when it is hoped there will be confirmation as to whether any further charges will be laid.