A TOOL-MAKER spat at his girlfriend after she dumped him while they were at a gym, a court was told.

Marcus Heywood swore at Maria Shewring when she ended their relationship during a trip to Fitness First, in New Street, Ashford. But he was given a a conditional discharge after magistrates at Ashford heard he had suffered at the hands of Miss Shewring, who was diagnosed with mental health problems last year.

Heywood, 40, of Baileys Field, South Ashford, was found guilty of assaulting Miss Shewring on March 1. Prosecutor Peter Holt said she felt humiliated and shocked by his actions but that members of staff at the gym said she had been aggressive towards him.

Nicholas Jinks, defending, said Heywood was surprised when Miss Shewring ended the relationship and spat at her because he was annoyed and upset.

Heywood was also charged with failing to attend court after not turning up for

his trial. He was given a

12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay costs of £250.