LITTLEPORT man David Martin protested in court this week, after magistrates ordered him to pay £500 compensation to his ex-partner Deborah Cowlin. Ms Cowlin suffered a broken wrist after being assaulted by Martin during a family row at her home. She is a

LITTLEPORT man David Martin protested in court this week, after magistrates ordered him to pay £500 compensation to his ex-partner Deborah Cowlin.

Ms Cowlin suffered a broken wrist after being assaulted by Martin during a family row at her home.

"She is a hairdresser and was working just four days after the alleged broken wrist, so I can't see where it is due," he said.

"I will pay it, don't get me wrong, but I find it really hard to accept."

But 46-year-old Martin was assured that the compensation awarded could have been much bigger - the starting point for a broken wrist is £3,300 said presiding magistrate Dr Christine Shaw.

At an earlier hearing, magistrates heard how Martin pushed Ms Cowlin to the ground, during a family argument at her home, regarding his late mother's property. Martin had been drinking; he was abusive, and appeared to be looking for a fight. Ms Cowlin was terrified, and called the police.

Martin, of The Crescent, Littleport, had admitted assault causing actual bodily harm. He was given an 18-month supervision order, during which his alcohol use will be addressed, and was ordered to pay £60 costs.

Regarding Ms Cowlin's broken wrist, Dr Shaw told Martin: "To a degree it was accidental when she broke her wrist; it was not your intent.