A WILMSLOW man has avoided jail despite harassing a woman and threatening to stab her partner and her horse.

Frank Marshall, of Barlow Road, appeared at Chester Crown Court on August 25 for sentencing on two charges.

The 40-year-old had admitted harassment without violence at court on June 21 and, at the same hearing, changed his plea to guilty for a sending a threatening message.

The charges relate to incidents between May 11 and May 18 last year when Marshall threatened a woman and was abusive towards her.

During the week-long campaign of harassment, on May 15, Marshall sent the woman an electronic message saying he would stab her partner and her horse.

Sentencing Marshall, circuit judge Michael Leeming imposed a total one-year jail term, but suspended it for 18 months.

In addition to the suspended sentence, Marshall was ordered to complete a 30-day Building Better Relationships programme and 150 hours of unpaid work.

A restraining order was also imposed, banning him from contacting the woman or her family save through a solicitor or the family court.

Marshall must also pay a surcharge of £156.