An unemployed father who attacked his wife was on Thursday handed a suspended sentence and banned from speaking to her despite both sides expressing willingness to try and mend the marriage.

Joseph Agius, 34, admitted holding his wife Claire against her will, slightly injuring and threatening her during a family argument.

He had been out of work and the couple were having difficulties following the birth of their daughter eight months ago, the court presided over by Magistrate Giovanni Grixti heard.

Mrs Agius, of Żurrieq, also testified behind closed doors and the magistrate was told both parties were willing to try and make their marriage work.

But the husband was sentenced to nine months imprisonment, suspended for four years, and Mrs Agius was placed under a protection order preventing him from speaking or communicating with her in any way.