A PROTESTER has denied causing criminal damage by spraying pink paint over a council building.

Stefan Lindon is accused of causing £6,500 worth of damage to Brighton Town Hall in The Lanes.

The 58-year-old appeared before Brighton Magistrates' Court where he was charged with criminal damage of throwing paint on the doors.

District Judge Amanda Kelly said: "You are charged with criminal damage. Because of the value of the alleged, it was £6,500, it is an either way offence.

"It is alleged that on February 14 this year you damaged two entrance doors at Brighton Town Hall, belonging to Brighton and Hove City Council and that you intended to damage or destroy such property."

Lindon confirmed his name and address, and entered a not guilty plea.

It is claimed he was taking part in a protest over climate change and was concerned over the council's alleged lack of action.

Lindon, of Brunswick Place, Hove, represented himself, while Victoria Grey represented the Crown Prosecution Service.

He denies criminal damage and will appear before Lewes Crown Court on June 24.

Michael Lynch-White, 30, of Mill Lane, Glynde, near Lewes, was also charged with criminal damage over the same alleged incident.