A FATHER-OF-FOUR punched his wife until she fell to the floor following an argument about shopping.

Michael Smith, 38, attacked wife Lorraine at their home in Darlington, South Durham Magistrates' Court heard yesterday.

Hari Jandoo, prosecuting, said police and an ambulance were called after Smith, of North Eastern Terrace, punched his wife all over the body and face.

Mrs Smith suffered a swollen eye after the attack but told police she did not want to press charges.

In an interview with officers, Smith said the argument last month had been about "minor shopping matters" after he put items into the supermarket trolley which his wife did not like.

He admitted assault causing actual bodily harm. Sentencing was adjourned until August 7 for reports.