John Viant, 29, from Truro, was found hanged in his cell at Exeter Prison in the early hours of Wednesday.

Attempts to revive him failed and he was certified dead by the prison doctor. Police said there were no suspicious circumstances.

Last week at Truro Crown Court, Viant admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm on his partner, 21-year-old mother-of-two Caroline Mathers.

He admitted attacking his partner by strangling her to the point where she lost consciousness.

The judge had adjourned sentence for a psychiatric report but had warned Viant he faced a mandatory life sentence.

Police said an inquiry was under way into the death and that an inquest would be held at a later date.