Amy Winehouse pleads guilty to assult

Amy Winehouse has pleaded guilty to common assault and disorder.

The 'Back to Black' singer appeared in Milton Keynes Magistrates Court this morning (20.01.10) to answer charges relating to an incident last month, where she lashed out at a theatre manager after interrupting a performance with a foul-mouthed outburst.

The troubled star - who was charged under her married name of Amy Civil - was given a two-year conditional discharge and ordered to pay £85 in costs and £100 compensation to her victim, front of house manager Richard Pound.

Passing sentence, district judge Peter Crabtree said it was clear alcohol had paid a massive part in the incident.

He said: "Mr Pound is a person whose job involves interaction with the public. If he's assaulted he deserves the court's protection. In this case it's obvious that alcohol played its part."

The judge said he felt the sentence was appropriate because it would force the singer - who has a history of drug abuse problems - to maintain good behaviour.

He added: "It may be harder than a fine because you have now got to stay on the straight and narrow for the next two years."

Amy was arrested on December 23 after handing herself in for police questioning following the disturbance, which took place during a performance of 'Cinderella' at Milton Keynes Theatre.

The 26-year-old star reportedly spent more than half an hour of the first act of the performance yelling expletives.

Her outbursts were said to include "f**k Cinders, Prince Charming, marry me" and branding the Ugly Sisters "b***hes."

Families in the audience got upset when Amy repeatedly stood up, blocking their view to jeer at the cast.