JAIL FOR MAN WHO LEFT PARTNER WITH LONG-LASTING HEALTH ISSUES
A man who assaulted his partner with such force that it resulted in a brain surface bleed and long-term health issues has been sentenced to prison.Peter Sowerby, aged 63 and residing in Tiverton, Devon formerly based in Hawes attacked his partner in August 2021 after an evening out with friends.
The injuries inflicted were so severe that the victim continues to experience seizures and is unable to resume her previous career in the hospitality industry, which was highly successful.
On April 13, 2026, at Teesside Crown Court, Sowerby was sentenced to five years and six months after a jury found him guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
The woman involved was a prominent businesswoman who managed two hotels and a newsagent in Hawes, a village in Wensleydale, where she and Sowerby previously lived before the assault.
That night, following a social outing in Hawes with friends, the couple returned to their residence at the Cocketts Hotel.
An argument erupted, during which Sowerby pushed his partner onto the floor, sat on her, and began punching her repeatedly in the face while kicking her body.
She managed to escape only after biting his finger.
She then sought refuge at a relative’s home nearby and was hospitalised, where she was diagnosed with bruising, swelling, and a brain surface bleed.
More than four years later, she still endures constant pain and seizures.
Her injuries forced her from her career, compelled her to leave her supportive community, and resulted in financial losses from her successful businesses.
All of this stems from Sowerby’s brutal assault.
Following the incident, Sowerby left the UK, establishing a business in Thailand, leaving the victim to handle the sale of her UK businesses and address outstanding debts.
