A DAD kicked in his ex-partner's door because she didn't like their child going to the home of his new partner, a court heard.

Burnley magistrates were told that Darren Thorpe, 35, had lived next door to his former girlfriend but was now engaged another woman.

Thorpe, of Humber Square, Burnley, admitted damage and was conditionally discharged for 12 months.

He was told by the bench he had caused minor damage and his behaviour had been impulsive.

Nigel Harrison, prosecuting, said there had been an argument between the defendant and the complainant and she returned to her home and locked the door.

The defendant was outside and began to kick the door, resulting in the bottom panel falling out. Police arrived shortly afterwards. Thorpe was arrested and admitted he was responsible for the damage but said he hadn't intended to do it.

Mark Williams, defending, said the two parties had lived next door to each other and there had not been any problems.

Thorpe was getting engaged and his ex-partner did not want the new woman in his life to have any involvement with their child.

She had gone looking for the defendant and his girlfriend and had got upset.

Thorpe admitted he had kicked out at the bottom panel in the door.

Mr Williams added the defendant had been out of trouble for more than a year, which showed things were moving in the right direction so far as his life and offending was concerned.