A MAN who assaulted his wife after the couple split up was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £75 costs and £50 compensation.

Simon Dunnings, 36, of Withy Close, Trowbridge, admitted common assault on September 24.

North West Wiltshire Magistrates' court, at Trowbridge on Thursday, heard the couple had separated early in September.

Prosecuting, Colin Meeke said the split had been amicable and on that weekend the children had been staying with their father. A row started when Mrs Dunnings took the children's school clothes to the house.

"She says he struck her in the face with his fist, he says with his finger. She received minor bruising to her cheekbones," said Mr Meeke.

Defending, Nigel Godsiffe said Dunnings had believed his wife was having a relationship, although Mr Godsiffe said there was no evidence for this.

"He was emotional and upset about it all. It's the first time he's been violent," he said.