A MARLBOROUGH man succeeded in disputing the cost of a front door that he admitting smashing during a domestic incident just before Christmas.

Michael Trotman, 33, of Southview Place, pleaded guilty to criminal damage on the night of December 6 when he appeared before Kennet magistrates on January 25.

But he was astonished that Sarsen Housing Association, which owns the premises where his wife and children live, were claiming nearly £600 to replace the door, especially as he had already replaced it himself with a metal door. The case was adjourned until Tuesday to ascertain the exact amount of compensation Sarsen was claiming.

Clerk of the court, John Hope, told the bench that Sarsen now accepted that Trotman had replaced the door and claimed £53.59 for its expenses in sending out an officer to examine the damage.

Becky Abbott, prosecuting, told the court that Trotman and his wife had had an argument earlier that day about going Christmas shopping. Later on they went to a local pub where the argument started again, with Mrs Trotman walking out and going home.

Later on, Trotman turned up and began shouting outside the house, smashing the glass in the door while banging on it to be let in.

Trotman was given a 12-month conditional discharge, and ordered to pay £53.59 compensation and £34 costs. An existing community rehabilitation order for another offence is to continue.