A TEENAGER refused to accept her father's new partner and shouted abuse and threats at her whenever she saw her in the street.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Holly Lorraine Maher's behaviour towards Clare White went on for four years but it was only in the last 12 months it had become what could be classed as harassment.

Maher, 18, of Alma Place, Clitheroe, was convicted of harassment after a trial. She was conditionally discharged for 12 months and a retraining order was imposed for the same period. She was also ordered to pay £50 costs.

Neil White, prosecuting, said Maher's parents separated several years ago.

"The behaviour relates to his new partner and whenever their paths crossed she would insult her and swear at her," said Mr White. "She also made threats towards her including one that she would smash her head in with a hammer."

Clare Knight, defending, said the charge related to a period of four or five years but in the early years it had been anti-social behaviour rather than harassment. She said there had been an assault by Maher's boyfriend but he had been punished for that and it was nothing to do with Maher.

"My client was very upset at the time," said Miss Knight. "Her father and his partner have now moved away and she no longer knows where they live."