A man who pleaded guilty to beating and biting his wife told the court he only did so out of frustration that the complainant was not doing "womanly" duties in the yard.

Vilmore Gordon of Old Harbour Road, Spanish Town, St Catherine, was before the courts to answer to the charge of assault occasioning bodily harm. He was taken to task by Senior Resident Magistrate Marcia Dunbar-Green.

"Explain what is womanly work to me please, as I am not aware of it. You can also tell me if that gives you the right to assault her?"

Gordon explained that "since I am working and supporting her and the child, she must can clean the house, wash mi clothes and also clean di bathroom too."

He explained that he was the one doing the chores and it was frustrating.

The complainant told the court that her husband was not telling the truth and has previously hit her but she did not report it.

Allegations before the court are that on January 2, the couple was at home when an argument developed between them. This turned into a physical confrontation during which the wife was slapped and had her index finger severely bitten by the accused.

A subsequent report to the Spanish Town police resulted in Gordon been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm.

His bail was extended for sentencing April 12 and he was warned to keep the peace until.