A young child begged his mother not to "kill daddy" after witnessing a physical attack. 

Paula Wagstaff, of Downsview in Sandown, attended the IW Magistrates’ Court on Friday, November 6, after previously pleading guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Lauren McConnell, prosecuting, said the 38-year-old’s former partner, and father of her young son, attended her home on June 2 to spend time with his son.

Ms McConnell told the court that the three of them went swimming, but the next morning, the pair began drinking vodka.

Magistrates heard that the victim ‘made comments’ to Wagstaff, which resulted in her physically attacking the man before throwing a chair at him and smashing a glass ashtray.

Ms McConnell said the incident happened in full view of their young child, who is reported to have begged: “Please mummy, don’t kill daddy.” 

Wagstaff’s victim suffered head and shin injuries as well as bruises to his body.

Barry Keel, defending, said his client had been given vodka by the victim, and the drink had enhanced the way she reacted to 'antagonising' comments.

Mr Keel said Wagstaff is now in a settled relationship and has found the support she has been lacking in the past.

Magistrates handed Wagstaff an 18-month community order, which includes 100 hours of unpaid work and 25 rehabilitation days.

Wagstaff must also pay a £114 surcharge and £85 court costs.