Drunken Woman is Fined for Smashing a Plate and Hurling Abuse

A DRUNKEN woman who hurled racist abuse and smashed a plate at the Tea for Two tearoom in Ely was fined a total of £250 this week. Audrey Harris – who has numerous convictions for being drunk and disorderly -- was in the city centre when she shouted: I h

A DRUNKEN woman who hurled racist abuse and smashed a plate at the Tea for Two tearoom in Ely was fined a total of £250 this week.

Audrey Harris - who has numerous convictions for being drunk and disorderly -- was in the city centre when she shouted: "I hate the English, you are all a disgrace."

She used foul language, and tried to spit at tearoom proprietor Jason Watson during a fracas on September 16.

Police arrested Harris when she refused to quieten down, and she yelled out: "You are all so arrogant," and continued to swear.

Mr Watson was told that Harris had smashed a plate, and he grabbed her, fearing she would be violent.

When arrested and interviewed, 59-year-old Harris, of Lantern Court, High Street, Ely, could not remember the incident, because she had been drunk.

"She has numerous previous convictions for being drunk and disorderly, including one just two weeks ago," said prosecutor Yetunde Fawehinmi.

Harris admitted racially aggravated disorderly behaviour, and smashing a £10 plate on September 16.

"She accepts she drinks to excess and that sometimes lands her in court," said solicitor Adam Haselhurst. "When she is sober, she would not act that way, she was quite horrified to hear what she said.

"She lives with her husband, things have been strained, and she feels trapped. Her best friend in South Africa has died, and she feels more isolated than she did before."

Harris was ordered to pay £10 compensation, £75 costs and a £15 surcharge