A scaffolder who launched a sustained campaign of violence and abuse against his ex-partner has been jailed for 18 months.

Darren Tann terrorised her and slashed the tyres of her car on 14 different occasions, even though he was spotted on CCTV cameras she was forced to install at her home in Redruth.

A judge said he slashed her tyres even though he knew she would be driving with their young child in the car, and said that he wanted to 'exact his revenge' on her saying the break up was 'all her fault'.

Truro Crown Court was told the victim felt Tann was 'hunting me' and said 'I do not know how he knows where I am'.

Former Royal Tank Regiment soldier Tann, aged 51, of Park Road, Redruth, admitted stalking, assault and criminal damages charges and was jailed for 18 months, with a ten-year restraining order made.

Falmouth Packet: Darren Tann launched a hate campaign against his ex-partnerDarren Tann launched a hate campaign against his ex-partner (Image: Devon and Cornwall Police)

Judge Simon Carr told him he had terrified his ex-partner with his 'atrocious behaviour' as he intimidated, scared and abused her.

Although not part of the court hearing, in May Tann posted a message to the victim on his Facebook page, four months after his arrest on January 12 this year.

It read: “Apology time, I have been an ass. I am sorry for the trashy posts I have posted about you, it won't happen again. I apologise to you and you only however, not the other s**tc**s, they know who they are. To you, I am sorry.”