A MAN who allegedly smashed up a patio with a sledgehammer at his family home has been ordered to stand trial before Somerset Magistrates.

The court in Yeovil was told that Ian Barber, frm Over Stratton, claimed his estranged wife had locked him out of the house and would not let him inside to use the toilet facilities.

The 57-year-old defendant, of Bramley Rise, denied causing damage to a patio belonging to Jacqueline Barber and himself at Over Stratton on December 30.

He also denied using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour towards towards Mrs Barber, with intent to cause her to believe immediate violence would be used against her when he appeared before the court at Yeovil.

Defending solicitor Chris Ivory said his client claimed he did not use threatening behaviour during the incident.

A review of the case was conducted and both matters were adjourned for a trial to take place on March 23.

Until then his next court appearance, Barber was bailed released on bail with conditions not to contact Jacqueline Barber directly or indirectly and not to go to Bramley Rise, Over Stratton, except for one occasions when accompanied by a police officer to collect personal belongings.