A MAN who violently assaulted his female neighbour following a dispute about parking has been jailed.

Anthony Bert became aggressive towards his neighbour in Hove – a 50-year-old woman – after she parked her car in a private car park while collecting some items from her garden in March last year.

After making repeated threats, Bert assaulted her, causing significant injuries to her face and chest, before fleeing the scene.

Four months before, the 61-year-old had been the subject of an emergency call from the same victim after he kicked her front door and shouted threatening and abusive language.

Bert was spoken to by police officers after the victim chose not to pursue a prosecution.

Following the most recent incident, Bert was arrested at Heathrow Airport while attempting to board a flight to Spain.

After pleading guilty to two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent at Lewes Crown Court, he was sentenced to 64 months in prison.

The Argus: Anthony Bert, of Namrik Mews in Hove Anthony Bert, of Namrik Mews in Hove

Bert, of Namrik Mews in Hove, was also issued with a restraining order prohibiting him from contacting the victim or visiting the address in St Aubyns, Hove.

Detective Janet Summers said: “I would like to thank the victim for her support in achieving this sentence, after what was a vicious and sustained attack.

“Violence of any kind will not be tolerated in Brighton and Hove, and we are pleased to have a violent offender behind bars.

“If you are a victim of crime, please report online, via 101 or by calling 999 in an emergency.”