A DRUNKEN man jumped up and down on top of a car until the driver thought the roof would collapse.

James Christopher Lewis, aged 21, of Hendrefoilan Road, Sketty, admitted causing criminal damage before Swansea magistrates.

The court heard the driver of the Skoda, Darren Murphy was stopped at traffic lights in Uplands Crescent, Uplands, when the incident happened on November 1.

Lisa Jones, prosecuting, said between 50 to 70 people were gathered outside a takeaway near the scene when Lewis climbed on the roof, causing it to dent.

The court heard that he jumped up and down on the car to the point where Mr Murphy "thought the roof would collapse".

Following his arrest Lewis, who has no previous convictions, told police he'd been drinking.

"He said even though he didn't recall the incident he accepted responsibility for the damage and was very apologetic," said Mrs Jones.

When Mr Murphy took his car to mechanics he was told it would be "uneconomical to repair it".

Mrs Jones asked for £2,500 compensation on his behalf, to replace the car.

Rhodri Chudley, in mitigation, said: "Mr Lewis vaguely remembers that he stole one of his friend's hats and was chased by his friend on to the roof of the vehicle. He did express remorse for what had happened.

"Yes he was dunk on the night in question but he has no alcohol or drugs dependency issues."

Mr Chudley said Lewis had looked up the value of the Skoda, and a model of the same age could be bought for between £1,400 and £1,800.

Court chairman, Alun Wiliams, sentencing, said: "This was a serious offence and totally frightening for the victim. In addition considerable damage has been caused and the claim for compensation is appropriate."

Lewis was given a 12-month community order and must undertake 120 hours of unpaid work.

He was also ordered to pay £300 compensation.