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A man who drove a JCB into a house has been handed a suspended prison sentence.

Mark Holmes, 56, of Brynheulog Street, Penybryn, caused £28,000 worth of damage when he rammed the digger into a car before turning his attention to the house in Maes y Coed, Blackwood.

On January 31, Newport Crown Court heard how Holmes’ brother was the ex-partner of victim Paula Brown with relations “strained”.

A statement from Ms Brown said she thought Holmes was going to kill her and that she couldn’t return home because the building was unsafe.

After repeatedly reversing into her car, Holmes then raised the digger’s arm and went for the house – making contact with Ms Brown and causing minor injuries.

Footage of Holmes attacking the property on November 8 last year went viral and made national headlines after it was posted to social media.

Holmes became aware that he was being filmed and stopped the attack – driving the digger to Blackwood police station.

Defending Holmes, barrister Marian Lewis, said he lost control and was remorseful for his actions.

Holmes had admitted charges of aggravated vehicle taking, causing property damage, driving under the influence, and battery, at an earlier hearing.

Recorder Duncan Bould sentenced Holmes to 16 months in prison, suspended for two years.

He also had a ten-year restraining order and was banned from driving for three years.