A THUG who twice assaulted a woman has been spared a prison sentence.

Joseph Whiffen assaulted the woman on two separate occasions in Colchester on September 19 of last year.

The 43-year-old admitted the crimes when he appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court.

Whiffen, of Hickory Avenue, Colchester, was handed an eight week prison sentence, suspended for 18 months.

He must undertake 30 days of a rehabilitation requirement and must carry out 100 hours of unpaid work within the next year.

Whiffen must also pay £233 in a surcharge and costs.