James Peppard, 28, admitted two counts of criminal damage and one charge of common assault at Crawley Magistrates' Court on Wednesday (July 23).

The court was told that on July 10 Peppard had been drinking and was angry that his girlfriend of two years had gone for a bath and locked the front door.

Peppard, of Cuckfield Close, Bewbush, kicked his way in to their shared home and tore her towel away trying to shove her outside.

Prosecuting Sally Evans said: "They have been in the relationship for two years but he has problems with alcohol. At around 23.15 she was having a bath when there was a loud bang.

"He had been out drinking and was going to be cross. She told him the relationship was over.

"The next thing she knew door flew open and crashed against the wall. She got her phone out to call the police.

"He pulled her towel away from her and tried to push her out of the house."

The court heard how Peppard had broken his partner's mobile phone as he tried to 'pull her down the stairs'.

"He was arrested outside and in interview he told police that he has been to the pub and had four pints he said 'I was quite tipsy'."

Defending Geoff White said: "The woman sat at the back of the court wished to resume her relationship with the defendant.

He has issues with alcohol and needs to come home to address them rather than being out of work and homeless.

"She is willing to take that chance."

The court was told that by admitting criminal damage and common assault

Peppard breached a conditional discharge dating back to February 22.

Chair of the magistrates Dr Alan Forbes said: "We will adjourn your case for a standard probation report.

"You will return to this court on August 15 to be sentenced for these matters. You are released on unconditional bail."