A FRACAS developed at a family get-together following a funeral, Dolgellau magistrates heard.

Tracey Willingham, prosecuting, said that family members were shocked after Michael Connor Sullivan, 24, of Crafnant, Dyffryn Ardudwy went into a blind rage at the Ael y Bryn Hotel, smashing a French door and threatening Thomas Kevin Williams, the hotel’s proprietor.

Sullivan pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage valued at £350 and to causing harassment, alarm and distress to Mr Williams.

The court heard that the defendant threw a pint glass at the French door and when asked to calm down by the proprietor beca­me aggressive tow­ards him on several occasions.

Sullivan apologised for his behaviour and when interviewed by police exp­ressed shame and rem­orse, and told the police that he was a long time friend of the proprietor.

Defence solicitor Iestyn Davies said that his client did not challenge what Mr Williams said, adding that his client had lost a long-term friend and put down his actions to the exces­sive drinking on what was an emotional day full of tension.

Sullivan was fined £40 for criminal damage, £80 for threatening behaviour and ordered to pay £85 court costs, £20 victim surcharge and pay £365 compensation to the Ael y Bryn Hotel.