A DISPUTE between two canal boat owners in Trowbridge has led to one man facing a community penalty for using threatening behaviour.

John Pearce, 47, of Greenland View, Bradford on Avon, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour by being abusive to another canal boat owner, Jason Wheatman at Chippenham magistrates' court on Friday.

Pearce was moored up off Canal Road in August this year when the incident happened.

Andy Pritchard, prosecuting, said: "Mr Wheatman was washing up in the kitchen of his boat watching his five-year-old son playing outside.

"He saw Mr Pearce approach and face his son while adopting a cocky stance. He said he had something in his hand.

"He went out to find out what was happening and Mr Pearce swore at him and threatened him, calling him a coward. He said his son could hear everything. Mr Pearce then left.

"There may be some history between the two men."

Stephen Clifford, defending, said: "There is a history between these two men and Mr Pearce regrets allowing himself to get involved. He says he did not see the boy. Mr Wheatman claimed he was being threatened with a three-and-a-half-foot sword but Mr Pearce was actually carrying a bottle of spirits and was not using it to threaten anyone.

"Mr Wheatman has previously reported Mr Pearce to the RSPCA for cruelty to his dog, which was subsequently taken away. However, after a full investigation the dog was returned to him because the allegations were unfounded.

"Mr Pearce also had a tooth knocked out by Mr Wheatman in a previous incident. He regrets the hostility between them."

Magistrates told Pearce that he faces a community order for the offence.

A charge of having a blade or point in a public place was dropped. The lead magistrate said: "It seemed there was a child present and alcohol was involved.

"Even though it was of short duration Mr Pearce has previous convictions and we will consider imposing a community penalty."

Pearce was released on conditional bail until December 7 when he will return to court to be sentenced.