David Cairney admitted assaulting the woman to her severe injury, permanent disfigurement, permanent impairment and to the danger of her life.

During the assault, the 34-year-old also struck his victim on the body with a skateboard. His actions were witnessed by two men who were forced to climb out of a window at the property in Elgin, while calling the police for help.

When officers arrived, they saw Cairney sitting on top of the unconscious woman, repeatedly punching her to the head and hitting it off the ground. He continued to assault his victim until officers were able to forcibly remove him from atop her prone body.

The complainer suffered numerous life-threatening blunt force trauma injuries to her face and neck. The court heard how she will suffer long term impairments as a consequence of the attack, which took place on February 15, 2022.

Cairney pleaded guilty to the attempted murder charge at the High Court in Glasgow on June 28. On August 8, at the High Court in Dundee, he was given a 13-and-a-half-year extended sentence, with 10 years and six months to be served in custody.

A non-harassment order, banning him from contacting or attempting to contact his victim, was granted for an indefinite period.

Moira Orr, who leads on homicide and major crime for the Crown Office, said: “David Cairney showed a callous disregard for the safety and wellbeing of his then partner. Our thoughts and best wishes remain with her as she continues to deal with the lasting trauma caused by this violent individual.

“Cairney will now have to face the consequences of his wicked actions. COPFS remains committed to prosecuting crimes of violence and domestic abuse, which are an unacceptable blight on our communities.

“I would encourage all victims or witnesses of similar offending to come forward, report their experiences and seek support.”