Bound over to keep the peace

Denise Kimberley's behaviour led to Helen Smith suffering ill health and depression, Worcester magistrates were told.

Peter Parson, prosecuting, withdrew harassment charges against Kimberley after she agreed to be bound over in the sum of £200 for 12 months.

Justices heard the 43-year-old "devoted unwanted attentions" to Miss Smith after they were introduced last year and saw each other on a social basis with their partners.

Both women were in relationships with other women.

Mr Parson said Kimberley took an "affection" towards Miss Smith and continued to contact her after it had been made clear they no longer wanted to see her.

"She apparently went round the house banging on the door a number of times," he said.

"Calls were to made to Helen Smith's place of work and on her mobile phone, as a result of which her mobile was given to someone else."

Over a period of four or five days in March, she made silent phone calls.

Miss Smith reported the incidents to police, who warned Kimberley to stop her behaviour.

She then made visits to her house when her partner was not there saying things like "please let me in I need to talk to you, I'm soaking wet and cold".

"When that was not exceeded to she became offensive towards Helen Smith," added Mr Parson.

He said there was no physical violence.

The court heard Miss Smith was left depressed and on Prozac as a result of Kimberley's actions.

In interview Kimberley, of Meadow Road, admitted sometimes banging on the door and window after returning from shopping.

Iain Willis, defending, said his client and Miss Smith had shared a relationship that had been discovered by their partners.

"It has caused a great deal of difficulty and distress at work and also her partner a great of distress," he said.