GAZETTE & HERALD: A FAILED attempt at a new life in Australia led Ronald Smith to attack his wife Karen, a court heard.

Smith, 46, of Quemerford, Calne, pleaded guilty to attacking his wife on August 5 when he appeared before North Wiltshire magistrates sitting in Chippenham on Thursday.

The couple, who have been married for 19 years, both said in police statements after the incident how their marriage had come under strain after a failed emigration attempt.

Michelle Hewitt, prosecuting, said they returned from Australia in July after they decided living there would not work, and both blamed each other.

Ms Hewitt told how on the morning of August 5, Mrs Smith got up quite early and was in the kitchen. "She felt a presence behind her," Ms Hewitt said. "And when she turned around he was there. She said 'oh it's you' and he replied 'why wouldn't it be me?'

"He then grabbed her by the arms and pushed her back on the kitchen cabinets. He was shouting in a rage then grabbed her by the throat, squeezing it and making it difficult for her to breathe.

"He let go of her neck but still had hold of her by the arms. After he had held her like this for 45 minutes she tried to get away out of the back door, but he continually locked it.

"She feared for her safety and knew she had to leave the house. The whole incident made her feel very scared."

Smith, said in a statement to police the next day he felt embarrassed returning to the UK and admitted pushing his wife and shouting angrily.

Smith wept in court as his defence solicitor, John Elliott told how he was depressed and feared his marriage was over for good.

Mr Elliot said Smith's wife felt their move was a great mistake. Smith was all set for a new life and had a second interview with a welding firm, but because he wanted to be with her, he came back to Britain.

Mr Elliott said: "He is very concerned about what happened. He's anxious to get this matter resolved. He feels his marriage could be totally finished."

The case has been adjourned until September 7 for pre-sentence reports. Smith was released on conditional bail.