Man fined for car damage

Marie Rogers was driving along Mason Street in the village when she saw a man take something from his pocket and approach the vehicle.

She believed the Renault Megane had been damaged by the man, who appeared the worse for drink, and called police.

Owner Michelle Russell found several lines had been scratched along her three-year-old car.

“She said she was annoyed and felt that she couldn’t park safely near her home anymore,” said Helen Griffiths, prosecuting.

Her ex-partner, Robert McClune, was arrested and he told police he could not remember what happened following a drinking session in the Royal Oak.

“He said the relationship had failed and he had subsequently found out she had started a relationship with his brother. This is not accepted in a statement made by her,” said Mrs Griffiths.

McClune, 45, of Station Road, admitted damaging property on 27th May. He had a previous conviction for harassment.

Presiding magistrate David Summers fined him £81 and ordered him to pay £150 compensation, with £85 costs.

Jon Barber, for McClune, said Ms Russell wanted £150 to cover an insurance policy excess charge but did not wish for McClune to be prosecuted.