A man denies stealing four chickens and a tractor from his ex in Tisbury last month.

Prosecutors allege Stuart Penny, 36, of no fixed address, was seen later that day driving around with the birds. It was claimed he said: “If you want these chickens back you know what to do.”

It is said he harassed an ex-partner and her new boyfriend between September 1 and October 1, 2020, by making unwanted phone calls, sending texts and going to their home. He is also accused of harassing a more recent former girlfriend on September 5.

Appearing before Swindon Magistrates’ Court via telephone from Melksham police station, Penny pleaded not guilty to three harassment charges, theft, and two allegations of criminal damage.

Richard Williams, defending, said his client vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

He was bailed with conditions to live and sleep at a house in Mayenne Place, Devizes, not to contact two former partners and another man, and not to go to Salisbury, Amesbury and Tisbury.

Penny is due before Swindon Magistrates’ Court on October 19 for a case management hearing.