COMPENSATION awarded to a man's ex-girlfriend for assaulting her has not been paid, Watford Magistrates heard.

Karl Smith, 33, of The Pelhams, Garston, was ordered to pay £575 in September last year. Included in the amount was £100 for the victim.

Last Friday, Smith, was before the court to explain why despite reminders being sent and visits from the bailiffs, he had failed to pay any of the money, which was due after 28 days.

Smith said he had been living in a night shelter after letting his girlfriend have the house because she looked after their son. He said he lost his job and had no money.

He could not remember receiving any letters from the court, which had all been sent to his present address, which he shares with his parents.

Chairman of the bench Mr Michael Moss said: "Mr Smith do you want to go to prison?

"You have been ordered to pay this money but have not, can you tell us why you haven't paid a penny.

"It has been outstanding for nine months now. The victim waiting for compensation is something the court takes a very dim view of."

Mr Moss asked what Smith's job prospects were and was told he was doing a building training course at college and had a job lined up in the construction industry paying £100 a day.

Smith said his sister was interested in buying his car and if he sold that it would give him about £500.

He was told if he paid the full amount there would be no need to attend the next fines court on Monday, July 7.