A FORMER body builder verbally lashed out at Kendal magistrates as she was being sentenced for assaulting a constable in the execution of her duty. 

Unemployed Vanessa Sewell, of Riverside Place, Kendal, shouted: "It's just a joke" as the prosecution solicitor read out details of her offence at South Cumbria Magistrates' Court.

Sewell, 37, went on to interrupt proceedings several times, at one point shouting: "This is absolutely rubbish."

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Diane Jackson, prosecuting, explained that the constable had been visiting Sewell's home on a welfare check up about the defendant's medication. The court heard that during the visit Sewell had started to 'bounce on her feet' and ran towards PC Smith.

Sewell interjected several times while the prosecution outlined the circumstances of the case claiming that she did not take medication.

"If I was going to do it (attack the police constable) I would have thrown her out the window," she said.

Sewell was led out of court by security staff.

She returned later and stated that she was 'not guilty' but also apologised to the court for any upset caused. 

Sewell was given a 12 month community order and will have to complete 200 hours of unpaid work.

Deputy District Judge Edward Barr warned Sewell that she should not let herself down and said he hoped she would show 'dignity and courtesy' for the probation service.