A HAMPSHIRE police officer has spoken of his “absolute living nightmare” as he faced accusations of harassing his estranged wife.

PC Matthew Tasker said he was desperate to get on with his life after being cleared following a two day trial.

The 34-year-old, from Lyndhurst, wept uncontrollably as magistrates delivered their verdict yesterday.

After the hearing, PC Tasker, who has served with Hampshire Constabulary for 15 years, said: “For me it has been a really difficult year and this last two days have been an absolute living nightmare.

“I want to get on with my life.”

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During the trial, Guildford Magistrates Court heard how Mr Tasker had moved out of the home he part-owned with wife Caroline after their six-year marriage broke down.

On December 10 last year, Mr Tasker twice attempted to re-enter the house in Daniels Walk, Calmore claiming that he had consulted his solicitor.

He was told to leave the property by police on the second occasion, but was later arrested after being spotted in the garage of the home, where he was sheltering from the cold. His behaviour was described as being calm and relaxed throughout the evening.

In defence, he claimed that he had wanted to stay at his house as his parents, with whom he was staying, were in the middle of a break-up and he had nowhere else to stay.

On the second occasion, when he forced open a conservatory door to gain entry, he claimed he had no idea anybody was in the house.

Magistrates delivered a not-guilty verdict to the charge of harassment without violence.