A MAN who lived in a tent at the bottom of his partner's garden has been handed a community order after forcing his way into her home.

David Power caused £700 in damage to the door at Humber Bridge in Steensbridge on July 14.

Prosecutor Jackie Rogers told Hereford Magistrates Court that Power had been in a relationship with Katie Parker for seven years and they had three children together.

However, Power had been living in a tent in the garden for just over a month and refused to leave.

Ms Rogers told the court that Power constantly tried to get into the property, resulting in Miss Parker locking herself and her children in the bathroom.

The court heard that Marches Housing, who own the property, secured the rear door by screwing it shut.

Magistrates last week heard that on the day police were called Miss Parker was talking to her friend James Price.

"They heard glass smashing," said Ms Rogers.

"Mr Power had entered the living room and saw Mr Price," said Ms Rogers.

"The defendant lunged towards him and was throwing punches.

"The defendant got round Mr Price and tried to get to Miss Parker, but Mr Price got hold of his shirt to stop him getting to Miss Parker and punched the defendant in self defence."

A number of police officers were sent to the scene, but Chris Morgan, defending, told the court that Power only faced a single charge of causing criminal damage.

He added that his client told police that he was the one being assaulted.

Power, who now lives in Pulley Avenue, Eaton Bishop, was issued with a 12-month supervised community order and a 12-month restraining order preventing him from contacting Katie Parker unless it is done through his step-father.

He was also told not to enter Steensbridge and to undertake 40 hours of unpaid work.

Power also has to pay £700 compensation for the damaged door, as well as a £60 government surcharge.