'I was so scared... I thought I'd never see my kids again'

MUM SUFFERS FROM PTSD AFTER EX ATTACKED HER ON HOLIDAY

- By MEGAN BANNER

A MUM has spoke of the harrowing moment she thought she would never see her children again as her ex-partner pinned her against the wall, with his hands around her neck, while they were on holiday in Turkey.

Helen Mulligan, 48, from Newton-Le-Willows told the ECHO her 18-month relationship with 52-year-old Christopher Sargent was controlling.

The relationship started in March 2024 after he messaged her on Facebook. She said they had been friends on the social media platform for “ages,” before he started liking her stories and commenting on posts.

He then started sending her voice notes, which she “thought were funny” so the pair went on a date.

Helen said she initially thought Sargent was “adorable,” before his “mask started slipping”.

She recalled how the relationship soon became “jealous and controlling” and said her friends and family became increasingly concerned.

Helen said: “I went down a slippery slope and lost myself. I’d end the relationship but we'd always end up getting back together. I felt guilty.

In August this year, Helen agreed to go on holiday to Turkey with Sargent as friends. The holiday started well until Helen said “a rage” sparked in her former partner and he attacked her in the hotel room.