THREATENING a social worker at County Hall landed an East Cowes man in front of Island magistrates on Tuesday.

Christopher Bowden, 41, of York Avenue, told the social worker "if anything happens to my son I will kill you" when he couldn't get answers relating to a family issue.

Bowden admitted using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear of unlawful violence on April 26.

Ann Smout, prosecuting, said Bowden was unable to see the manager he wanted to at County Hall, and the social worker was unable to assist with his enquiries.

Barry Arnett, for Bowden, said his client had been very frustrated with a number of issues but had not gone to County Hall to cause trouble.

Bowden was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £30 surcharge.