A MAN has been ordered to take part in a rehabilitation programme after he admitted assaulting a woman in Basingstoke on Christmas Day.

James Christopher Benjamin Lewis pleaded guilty to beating the woman, as well as damaging a door and wall at her house.

Coventry Magistrates’ Court heard last week that Lewis left the door and wall with scuff marks.

Both offences occurred on Christmas Day, the court was told.

The 26-year-old appeared in court last Friday for sentencing, after pleading guilty at an earlier hearing on April 27, at the same court.

He was ordered to pay compensation of £200, as well as costs of £135 and a victim surcharge of £95.

Lewis, of Keenan Drive in Bedworth, Warwickshire, was also given a two-year-long community order, which will see him take part in the building better relationships programme, for 60 days.

He must also participate in 20 days of rehabilitation activities and carry out 150 hours of unpaid work in the next twelve months.

Magistrates granted a two year restraining order, which means that Lewis is banned from contacting the victim or attending her address.