MAGISTRATES have complained that the probation service delayed the sentencing of a 59-year-old woman who is facing jail. Audrey Gill has admitted that she assaulted a police officer in Ely, and at an earlier hearing was told she could be sent into custody

MAGISTRATES have complained that the probation service delayed the sentencing of a 59-year-old woman who is facing jail.

Audrey Gill has admitted that she assaulted a police officer in Ely, and at an earlier hearing was told she could be sent into custody.

But her sentencing could not go ahead on Thursday, because the probation service had been unable to produce a report that was requested by the court.

"We are concerned that the probation service has been unable to fulfil the requirements it undertakes to give to this court," said presiding magistrate Harvey Harrison.

Talking to Gill, he said: "We are very concerned this has occurred, not only because of the stress involved, but there is the possibility of time in custody, and that has obviously added to your stress."

A letter to the court explained that staff sickness had resulted in the delayed report, and the probation service asked for Gill's sentencing to be adjourned until February 25.

But the court refused that request, and adjourned the case for three weeks, until February 7.

Gill, of Lantern Court, High Street, Ely, has admitted assaulting Pc Mark Beaven and being drunk and disorderly in Ely High Street on December 10 last year.