A man who kicked a fence after having six pints has been sentenced - some three years after the incident.

Aidan Gallagher, 65, of Summers Street, pleaded guilty to criminal damage at Swindon Magistrates' Court on July 16.

The court heard how Gallagher had around six pints before going to meet his friend for more drinks on May, 15 2021.

But on his way there, he kicked a fence outside a property and the victim says they saw him damaging the panels, went to challenge him and after a heated conversation went back inside.

A few minutes later, Gallagher continued to damage other pieces of the fence.

Back in 2021, an out of court settlement was agreed and Gallagher was told he had to pay £150 compensation, so he went to the police station to do so, but instead officers told him a local company had since quoted £384 for the repairs. 

He asked for evidence and refused to sign the paperwork, but never heard anything back, until this year when he received two court summons letters – one for 2024 and one from 2021.

Gordon Hotson, defending, said: “Mr Gallagher was content to deal with the matter and pay £150.

“He is still ready, willing and able to pay £150.”

The magistrate apologised to Gallagher and said he had been "dealt with badly by the Criminal Justice Service".

He was ordered to pay the original £150 compensation within 28 days.