KICKING out at a car after arguing with his girlfriend has cost a Willington man £165.

Alan Brown admitted causing criminal damage when he appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

Prosecutor Hari Jandoo said the 43-year-old of Chester Drive left a dent in the driver-side door of a car belonging to his partner’s friend on October 20.

Callum Terry in mitigation said Brown had fallen out with his partner and kicked out at her friend’s car as he did not believe she was helping the situation.

He said Brown fully regrets the incident and has offered to pay for any damage, but had been advised to stay away from the victim by police.

He was ordered to pay £150 compensation, a £15 victim surcharge and was given a conditional discharge for 12 months.