An incandescent retired maths teacher chased a builder with an electric drill after accusing him of looking through his window, a court heard.

Geoffrey Butler had clashed with John Clulow and his son, also called John, over work they were doing on a neighbouring property in Margetts Place, Lower Upnor.

It culminated in February last year when Butler, 61, confronted the pair.

He allegedly headbutted one and hit the other with a house brick but claimed he was acting in self defence as he denied actual bodily harm and affray at Medway Magistrates' Court.

Prosecutor Paul Edwards alleged when he was told to go away by Mr Clulow junior he crossed his arms and said "make me" before matters escalated and he spat in his face.

He is accused of proceeding to punch and headbutt him.

The victim’s father tried to separate the pair and Butler allegedly kicked him in the groin.

Mr Edwards said: “All three fell to the floor.

“John senior was then hit in the face with a house brick.

“Butler picked up a hand drill and walked towards him before picking up a piece of wood and hitting him numerous times on the head.”

As Butler reached for another brick, Mr Edwards said, John junior struck him with a plank.

The father and son eventually managed to pin Butler down and call the police.

John junior was left with a cut to the head which required stitches and a black eye while his father had a bloody nose.

Wayne Crowhurst, defending, said: "Mr Butler claims he was the victim and was acting in self defence."

Butler was released on unconditional bail to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday, July 9.

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