Babyshambles frontman Pete Doherty has pleaded guilty to smashing a photographer's camera.

The incident took place in Somerset last August when Doherty became frustrated by News Agency photographer Cath Mead as she tried to take pictures of his then girlfriend, Irina Lazareanu.

The singer took Ms Mead's camera and smashed the lens, Yeovil Magistrates court heard today.

Doherty must now pay £918.27 in compensation to Ms Mead, as well as £100 in legal costs.

Today's hearing was due to take place last week but the Babyshambles singer failed to appear in court.

An arrest warrant for Doherty was initially issued but later dropped.

(by Jason Gregory)