POLICE have launched an investigation into a by-election bust up in which a pensioner was slapped by a Tory councillor.

Officers have taken a statement from UKIP member Mike Beggs, 72, who was assaulted by Councillor Penny Jackman last month.

Mr Beggs says her slap broke his dental bridge, which will cost thousands of pounds to repair.

He has reported the incident to police after failing to receive an apology from Lymington and Pennington Town Council or an assurance that the authority will pay his dental bill.

The Daily Echo understands that officers are planning to interview Cllr Jackman next week.

Mr Beggs was a candidate in the Pennington by-election and was assaulted at the count during a row over his election leaflets.

When the incident was debated by the council last week a Liberal Democrat motion that Cllr Jackman should resign was defeated by the ruling Tories. Mr Beggs said he was repeatedly refus-ed permission to address the meeting and could only speak once the motion had been thrown out.

When a member of the public showed him a letter from town clerk Steve Cridland that appeared to state that the council took no responsibility for Cllr Jackman’s actions, adding that any complaint should be made to the police, Mr Begg acted.

“I have therefore advised the police of the assault and they will be taking appropriate action,” he said. “I’m sorry it’s come to this – it will result in acrimony and costs that could have been avoided.”

A police spokesman said: “A complaint has been made and we are talking to potential witnesses to see if any offences have been committed.”

Cllr Jackman, who is also a member of the district council and the New Forest National Park Authority, declined to comment. In a statement issued last week she said she deeply regretted the incident involving Mr Beggs.