A 53-year-old Ipswich mechanic who assaulted a security guard in a row over parking must pay his victim £150 in compensation.

Brian Sparkes, of Millfield Gardens, Ipswich, admitted assault by beating when he appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court.

The incident occurred at around 8am on December 12.

Prosecutor Colette Harper said Stephen Elvin, a security guard at the University Campus Suffolk saw a Volvo parked in a private road and went to speak to the driver who was Sparkes.

Mr Elvin asked him to move to prevent getting a parking ticket.

However, Sparkes swore at him and an argument ensued during which Mr Elvin was pushed in the chest.

The court heard Sparkes continued to be abusive and his actions were witnessed by a member of the public.

Mrs Harper said Sparkes had 10 previous convictions, including seven for common assault.

Sparkes, representing himself, said he had been parking in the same spot for four years and had never got, or even been threatened with, a parking ticket.

He claimed the security guard was just stamping his authority on the situation.

Sparkes added he pushed Mr Elvin out of the way because he was leaning over him.

However, he also told the court: “I do apologise for what I have done.”

District Judge Sandeep Kainth sentenced Sparkes to a community order with a eight-week curfew between 7pm and 7am.

In addition to the £150 compensation to Mr Elvin, Sparkes must also pay £85 costs and £60 to the victims’ fund.