AN angry scuba diving instructor who smashed his ex-partner's car windscreen was told by a judge he might potentially need help to control his temper.

Burnley Magistrates’ Court was told how Marc Lawrence Patureau, 38, caused damage to the tune of £200 to the vehicle, belonging to Shannon Burrows, at Burnley, on September 7.

The hearing was told the defendant had lost his temper in similar circumstances a few days before and had been given a caution. The victim of the damage, his former partner / friend appeared to be supportive of him.

Patureau, of Holmes Street, Burnley, admitted damage. He was given a 12 month conditional discharge and must pay £200 compensation, £85 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

District Judge James Clarke told him: “You are potentially building up a picture of somebody who might need intervention from the probation service."

The defendant, an instructor for 17 years, told the hearing he had been diagnosed with bi-polar disorder and had not been taking his medication. He continued :"I had a quite stressful thee weeks. I am taking my medication again."