A divorcee who threatened to kill his ex wife and smeared excrement over her car has been given a suspended prison sentence.

The case was highlighted after police revealed they had been called to an unusually high number of domestic abuse incidents believed to be caused by the hot weather, alcohol and the World Cup.

Civil engineer Dean Sellars, 45, of Coxhill Gardens, River, was sentenced to 120 days imprisonment, suspended for two years, after pleading guilty to harassing his former wife.

It followed an incident at Cavalry Court, Walmer, where he smeared his own excrement over her car.

Sellars was convicted at Folkestone Magistrates' Court on June 16 and was also given a two-year supervision order.

He was also ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work, made the subject of a restraining order, and was ordered to pay £800 compensation and £800 court costs.

Throughout south Kent, which includes Dover and Deal, officers dealt with more than 100 calls and made 39 arrests in less then a week, between June 25 and July 2.

Police say protecting victims of domestic abuse and their families and arresting violent offenders is a top priority for them.

"Where appropriate those arrested are remanded in custody and those released on bail are issued with strict conditions not to contact witnesses or enter certain locations," said Chief Superintendent Chris Hogben.

"There can be no excuses for abusing a partner either physically or emotionally and this behaviour will not be tolerated.

"We will take every opportunity to arrest, charge and prosecute offenders to ensure that justice is done and victims are safe.

"We are also working closely with our partners to ensure that the victims who come forward receive the support that they need."

There is a domestic abuse one-stop shop in Dover where people can get confidential advice and support, and no appointment is needed.