A thug who “absolutely leathered” his former partner after she told him she was going on holiday is behind bars.
Stuart Pollock flew into a rage at Catherine MacKay in March last year at his home in Inverness.
The terrified mother was left with 29 different injuries – including broken ribs – during the brutal murder bid.
Pollock told a jury he was “embarrassed” at hitting Miss MacKay that night – but denied trying to kill her.
However, the 50-year-old was convicted of attempted murder after a trial at the High Court in Glasgow.
It emerged Pollock already had convictions for domestic-related offences against other women.
He was remanded in custody pending sentencing in November.
The court heard the pair had previously been in a relationship. Miss MacKay was attacked after she had gone to visit Pollock at his flat.
It was there Pollock snapped before launching a vicious assault. His ex was punched, kicked, dragged and choked.
In a 999 call, Miss MacKay said Pollock had “absolutely leathered” her.
When police spoke to a badly-beaten Miss MacKay was “highly distressed” and later described as a “mess”.
The victim told them: “He just went crazy…I said I was going to Tunisia and he just went mad.”
A paramedic described Miss MacKay’s eyes as being “absolutely scarlet” as a result of the attack. Her scalp was also badly bruised having been dragged by the hair.
Pollock gave evidence during the trial and claimed it was Miss MacKay who had become angry after she spotted a Valentine’s card from another woman.
He said he assaulted her after the mum refused to leave his flat – but denied allegations he strangled Miss MacKay.
His lawyer Drew McKenzie asked: “How do you feel about the severity of the injuries?”
Pollock replied: “Quite upset and embarrassed. I regret what I did. I wish that I did not do it.”
Prosecutors branded the attack “cowardly” and “entirely unprovoked”.
Judge Lord Bannatyne deferred sentencing for reports.