A VIOLENT man who twice assaulted a woman and attempted to run away from police has been jailed for seven years.

Matthew Haylett, of no fixed abode, attacked his victim in Tilehurst on June 17, hitting her on the back of her head, before pulling her hair and grabbing her by the throat.

The victim, a woman in her 30s, sustained bruising to her face, head, leg and hips.

When officers attended and informed Haylett that he was under arrest, Haylett fled the scene.

Earlier this year, the victim received threatening phone calls from Haylett.

Haylett then broke into the victim's property in July and slapped her and punched her in the face three times.

She sustained a cut and a swollen lip, as well as swelling to her face and cheeks.

Haylett was charged with the offences on August 2.

The 26-year-old admitted to causing fear of violence, escaping from lawful custody and assault at Reading Crown Court.

Detective Inspector Fiona Pearce, of Reading police station said: "These incidents were particularly frightening for the victim, who sustained injuries as a result of Haylett's actions.

"I would like to thank the victim in this case who found the courage to speak out and halt the attacks.

"We are satisfied with the sentence that Haylett has received from the courts."