THE CHAIRMAN of the West Dorset Women’s Refuge says the sentence of Steven Carpenter sends out an important message that will hopefully send out a message to other victims of domestic violence encouraging them to come forward.

Dorchester town and district councillor Molly Rennie said: “So often women and indeed men who this happen to believe that their partner is just going to get away with it or just get a fine or a short term prison sentence.

“To see things like this attract a significant sentence sends out a message for other people to realise that judges, the police and everybody else does take domestic violence seriously.”

Councillor Rennie said anyone experiencing domestic violence could always contact the West Dorset Women’s Refuge on 01305 262444.

• DETECTIVE Constable Amanda Pierce, of Weymouth CID, said: “This was a cowardly attack which left the victim with nasty facial injuries. I hope that this sentence sends a clear message that behaviour such as this will not be tolerated and that Dorset Police takes reports of domestic violence extremely seriously.

“I’d urge victims to report abuse at the earliest opportunity so that we can offer advice and the right support as soon as possible.

“As this case demonstrates, we can protect victims from domestic abuse if they let us.”