A MAN who admitted breaching a non-molestation order has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Kevin Ashcombe, of Churchfields, Knutsford, was forbidden from contacting a named woman by the family court in Crewe on April 14, last year.

The 34-year-old pleaded guilty to phoning or contacting the woman in Knutsford between September 22 and October 24, last year, when he appeared at Warrington Magistrates’ Court on July 1.

Ashcombe was given an eight-week custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months.

The court was told that only a custodial sentence can be justified because the ‘offence is so serious’.

Magistrates did not impose an immediate jail term because the defendant has a ‘limited offending history’.

The bench was told that there is also a ‘realistic prospect for rehabilitation’.

The court also considered the current high male prison population.

Ashcombe must complete a Building Better Relationships rehabilitation programme and comply with the instructions of an assigned probation officer.

The defendant was ordered to pay a £154 victim surcharge and costs of £85 to the Crown Prosecution Service.

A restraining order was also imposed, which will last until June 30, next year.

Ashcombe is forbidden from contacting three named people, including the victim of this charge, or from entering Crewe except for pre-arranged appointments.