A pensioner who hit his partner with a metal pole has been remanded in custody by a judge as he awaits a possible jail sentence.

Graham Hughes, 66, also hurled a cup of scalding coffee at Annemarie Grace in two separate attacks on February 10 and 12 this year.

Hughes, of Cornwallis Gardens, Hastings, had denied two counts of assault causing harm when he appeared at the town’s magistrates’ court.

But he changed his plea to guilty during a brief hearing at Lewes Crown Court.

Defending, Richard Body said: “There is no pattern of domestic violence against his partner of many years.”

Judge Charles Kemp remanded Hughes in custody until May 15 for sentence.

He said: “I am making no promises – all sentencing options are open.”