A MAN caught up in a gay love triangle committed a “crime of passion” by assaulting his ex-boyfriend’s new lover, a court was told.

James Harrison, aged 22, had some drinks at home with his boyfriend before the pair went to the Velvet Lounge nightclub on Tuesday, October 6.

Worcester Magistrates Court heard how Harrison and his ex-boyfriend entered the Angel Row venue at about 11pm but fell out soon after.

Matt Dodson, prosecuting, said Harrison became agitated by his ex-boyfriend sending text messages, so started flirting with another male.

The ex-boyfriend then left the club and Harrison followed him out into Angel Place.

Harrison chased his ex-boyfriend in the direction of the Metro Bar, St Nicholas Street, before grabbing him by the throat and pushing him against the wall. Harrison demanded to know who his ex-boyfriend had been texting and was told about a man he had been having a relationship with.

A white transit van then pulled up on the street and a man approached the squabbling couple. Harrison said: “Who are you?” The man said his name and then Harrison ran at him and slapped him across the face.

Mr Dodson added how the men began scuffling which resulted in all three of them falling to the floor. After they separated, Harrison punched the window of the van causing it to shatter. The police were called and after searching the area they were unable to find Harrison but later arrested him at his home address in The Crescent, Kidderminster.

Edward Gaynor-Smith, defending, said his client had been caught up in a “love triangle” and committed a “drunken crime of passion”.

Mr Gaynor-Smith added: “James Harrison came off worse in the incident and had to go to hospital with cuts and bruises. He also had to spend a night in the cells at the police station.”

After admitting assault and criminal damage Harrison was fined £150 and ordered to pay £150 in compensation to the victim.

He was also ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

l Your Worcester News was the only member of the media at this hearing.