A former heroin addict turned up at the house of his pregnant ex-partner and shouted abuse through the door before spitting at police officers, a court has heard.

Wayne Pritchard, 48, appeared at Norwich Magistrates' Court yesterday, where he pleaded guilty to one charge of using threatening, abusive or insulting words/behaviour and another offence of obstructing/resisting a constable in the execution of duty.

Robert Barnwell, prosecuting, said both offences occurred on February 26 this year.

Pritchard, of Catton Grove Road, Norwich, turned up at his ex-partner's home at about 5.30pm and 'started banging on the door, shouting and swearing, and threatening to kick the door down'. She told him to leave her alone through the letter box. The police were called and arrived at the address with Pritchard still shouting and swearing.

Mr Barnwell said Pritchard, who had been drinking, tried to resist arrest, spat at officers and had to be put in a prison van.

Gavin Cowe, mitigating, said Pritchard, a former heroin addict who was also in breach of a conditional discharge, had pleaded guilty to the offences.

He said he accepted banging on the door, but added that there was no damage caused and no forced entry, but 'does accept the distress and concern his behaviour would've caused'. He added the victim was 'anxious' to continue the relationship.

Sentencing was adjourned until March 29 for reports to be prepared.

The Evening News' Don't Suffer in Silence campaign aims to highlight the problem of domestic violence and the plight of thousands of victims. Do you have a story to tell after escaping an abusive partner? Contact crime correspondent Ben Kendall on 01603 772423 or email ben.kendall@archant.co.uk