also what was 'nasty' in the voicemail? or did he just sound pissed off?
i don't blame him being peeved - he now has to mess about getting quotes, organising a time for workmen to come etc and generally sorting out your husbands mess.
implying he's a nasty piece of work, whereas your husband has a 'good willed nature' because he actually owned up to damaging property (as he absolutely should have - no good-will about it) adds no weight to your argument.
anyway, if your mate will genuinely do all this work for just £50 -
# measuring up the panel needed - a trip to the property - petrol cost.
# sourcing and buying the new fence - as well as any other equipment needed - nails, screws etc.
# staining if necessary - need to buy stain and brushes.
# collecting it - a trip to a supplier in a van - petrol cost
# removing the old one - may need dismantling
# installing the new one - may need repairs on the fixings, posts, foundations etc before it can be safely attached
# and disposal of the old one? - trip to tip - more petrol
(even if he doesn't dispose - the owner of the house will have to and may then have to hire a van to get rid of it...? as well as petrol and his time and effort)
# pay someone to help him
# and take a wage for himself
- if this 'professional fencer' will really do all that for just £50, then I would bite his hand off and tell the man you will sort it all out for him.... then send him round here to do mine!