A 54-YEAR-OLD man employed to do some decorating for a Muslim man daubed the walls with racist abuse, including a drawing of a pig’s head, following a dispute over the job.

Blackburn magistrates heard Stephen Gary Oliver then papered over the offending words and pictures.

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But because of the poor quality workmanship the house owner peeled off the paper to reveal the offending material.

Oliver, 54, of West View, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to racially aggravated criminal damage to the wall of a house in Montague Street, Blackburn, belonging to Wajid Hussain.

He was fined £80 and ordered to pay £140 compensation, £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge.

Enza Geldard, prosecuting, said Mr Hussain had engaged Oliver to do some decorating in his home but there was a dispute over payment.

“The defendant then wrote on the walls in permanent marker various racist remarks and a picture of a pig’s head,” said Mrs Geldard.

“When the words and picture became visible Mr Hussain reported the matter to the police.”

Ian Huggan, defending, said the problem with the work was due to the temperature in the room which meant things weren’t drying.

“The owner wanted him to do more work but for the original price,” said Mr Huggan.

“He foolishly wrote and drew the things you have heard about and then tried to cover them up. It was extremely foolish and he knows he shouldn’t have done it.”