A MAN who allegely used a sledgehammer to smashed up a health centre had asked to lodge a complaint earlier that day, a court heard.

Dino Petrie, 50, of Balmoral Road, Westcliff, appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court yesterday, charged with affray and criminal damage.

It is alleged he caused £5,243 damage to the Taylor Centre in Warrior House, Southchurch Road, Southend on April 4. Four toughened panes of glass in the health centre’s reception were smashed along with the glass in a door.

Three computers, three phones, one chair and a scanner were also destroyed.

It is also alleged he used or threatened violence towards health centre staff causing them to fear for their safety.

In the short hearing the court heard Petrie allegedly arrived at the centre to make a complaint. He was handed a complaint form by a receptionist and left.

But it is alleged he returned and went on the rampage.

Petrie, who wore a grey hooded jumper, dark green trousers, walking shoes and glasses, did not enter a plea during the hearing.

The offence is so serious it has been sent to Basildon Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing which will take place on September 15.

Petrie was released on bail until the hearing on the condition he doesn’t contact witness or go to Southchurch Road between Queensway and Chichester Road.

In the wake of the alleged incident the South Essex Partnership Trust, which runs the Taylor Centre, says it is reviewing security.