Fathers 4 Justice campaigner gets conditional discharge

A court heard how Paul Watson threw purple powder over Liberal Democrat candidate Jody Dunn on a podium shortly after the election results were announced in the early hours of October 1.

Watson, 36, of Ashwood Grange, Thornley, County Durham, admitted common assault when he appeared at Hartlepool Magistrates Court. A further charge of criminal damage, relating to Ms Dunn's clothing, was withdrawn by the Crown Prosecution Service.

Barry Gray, defending, told the court: ''The powder has become the symbol of the organisation.

''He went to the election that night without any intention of throwing it on this unfortunate candidate but in the heat of the moment changed his mind.

''He did not single her out, he threw it at the nearest person.

''He did not wish for her to suffer personally.''

District Judge Martin Walker also ordered Watson, a sports centre manager, to pay Ms Dunn £135 towards the costs of her damaged clothing and a further £150 in personal compensation for the distress caused.

The District Judge told Watson: ''It's clear you were in a considerable emotional state and I rather see it as a personal expression of that emotion rather than one that might be regarded as political.

''There's no evidence to suggest Ms Dunn was specifically targeted. At one stage you considered pouring the powder over yourself and it's unfortunate you did not choose that course of action.

''I'm sure you regret taking the course of action you did.''

After the hearing Watson said the court case was not about him or Jody Dunn but the Fathers 4 Justice organisation.

He said: ''It was not violent and I did not intend to cause her any distress.

''What's important about today is that people realise what is happening to children being denied access to their fathers.

''Another 100 children today will lose contact with their families in courts across the country.''