Heartbroken because his wife refused to be reconciled with him, Philip Brogan poured creosote over family photographs and harassed her.

The 49-year-old also left a note for Tracy Brogan on her new partner’s car windscreen parked in Keighley saying: “Once a loving husband but not anymore.”

Brogan, of The Crescent, Ilkley, pleaded guilty at court in Bingley yesterday, to criminal damage and harassment and was sentenced to six months’ supervision and ordered to pay £85 court costs. He was also made the subject of a restraining order.

Marina Hunter-Gray, prosecuting, said the incidents, on January 20, followed an earlier police harassment warning to Brogan. He went on to call and text his wife.

A meeting in a café failed to bring her back and later Brogan visited the house in Keighley and piled up clothing and photos in the drive, pouring creosote on top.

The bench was told that he was heartbroken at the time, but now realised the 22-year-long relationship was over and he was deeply ashamed of his actions.

He was still supported by his two sons and his mother, the court was told.