BARMAN Robert Corkill received a criminal record for Christmas after kicking in two shop windows following an argument with his girlfriend, a court heard.

The 20-year-old could have got off with a police caution but ended up at High Wycombe Magistrates Court on Monday because he initially denied the offence, the court heard.

Corkill caused £400 worth of criminal damage to a shop owned by John Stringer, and £6 worth of damage to Room Features Limited, both in High Street, Chalfont St Peter.

Corkill, of Nightingale Way, Denham Green, pleaded guilty to two counts of destroying property on March 16, at 10.20pm.

Mary Clouston, prosecuting, said the offence happened when Corkill left The Poachers pub, in High Street, Chalfont St Peter, after an argument with his girlfriend.

She said: "He was agitated and walked towards Gerrards Cross when he kicked two shop windows. A driver who witnessed the offence called the police on her mobile telephone.

"Officers arrived shortly and found the defendant and his girlfriend arguing in front of a garage about 150 metres from the pub."

Corkill was arrested and denied the offences in a police interview and again when police told him fragments of glass from the windows were found on his clothes, Miss Clouston said.

Corkill said in mitigation: "I was a bit upset at the time and had a few problems at home and had a row with my girlfriend."

Corkill, who has no previous convictions, was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £55 costs and £400 compensation to Mr Stringer and £6 to Room Features.