We're incredibly sorry to hear that you've had trouble putting your bench together. Unfortunately, it does sound like you have received a faulty item. We do quality check all items upon receipt, however we're unable to physically put together every item of flat pack furniture prior to despatch, doing so could cause slight chips in the paint etc. - this is standard practice for retailers. That said it is incredibly rare that that this situation ever occurs, in fact we have never had an issue like this with one of our benches, so it is incredibly unfortunate that this has happened.
We have been in contact with you to arrange collection of the faulty item and delivery of a new one. Our sincerest apologies again that this situation has occurred and we hope you love your new bench.