A DAD has admitted affray at his former partner’s Swindon home.

Dion Whyte had been due to stand trial at Swindon Crown Court on three charges: affray, damaging a car and windows in his ex’ house.

But yesterday, as the trial was due to open, the 43-year-old pleaded guilty to affray. Nicholas Fridd, prosecuting, said he would withdraw the two criminal damage matters.

Whyte, of David Street, Bristol, was bailed to appear before the crown court on October 11 for sentence. Under his bail condition he has been banned from visiting Swindon save for legal appointments and prevented from contacting his ex-partner.

Judge Jason Taylor QC ordered a pre-sentence report from the probation service. He told Whyte: “You’ve pleaded guilty today, which in my judgement was a very wise course of action.”

He added: “I consider this a serious matter and no indication is given as to the likely sentence.”

Urging Whyte to keep his appointment with the probation service, Judge Taylor said: "It is in your interests to appointments with the probation service. If you miss the appointment you won't be given another chance."

Affray involves one or more people fighting in a public place in a way likely to cause others to fear for their safety.

Under sentencing guidelines published in 2008, the offence can attract a prison sentence of up to five years if someone is found guilty following a crown court trial.