A THUG who assaulted two women and caused almost £1,400 in damage to a property has avoided prison.

Adrian Castle damaged clothes, soft furnishings, a light fitting, microwave and tumble dryer all to the value of £1,395 during a rampage in Colchester.

The 54-year-old also assaulted two women during the offences on July 17, 2021, causing actual bodily harm to one of his victims.

Castle, of Balmerino Avenue, Thundersley, Benfleet, admitted two counts of common assault at Southend Magistrates’ Court.

He also admitted assaulting one of the women and thereby occasioning them actual bodily harm, as well as a separate count of criminal damage to property valued under £5,000.

Magistrates ordered Castle to pay a total of £1,595 in total compensation for his crimes, including a full repayment for the £1,395 worth of damage he caused at a victim’s property.

He must also pay £140 in court costs and a surcharge to fund victim services.

Furthermore, he must participate in 29 days of a Building Better Relationships course, which aims to promote lifelong changes in behaviours and attitudes.

Castle must also undertake up to 30 days of rehabilitation, at an officer’s discretion.