A WOMAN smashed a van window because it reminded her of her brother.

Abigal Prosser admitted damaging the front passenger window of a Mercedes Vito van, owned by a neighbour who was a mechanic, because it was a constant reminder of her mechanic brother.

Worcester Magistrates Court heard how the 28-year-old of Randwick Drive in Worcester was fed up of seeing the van parked outside her flat.

On May 8, Prosser was seen walking from the van by a neighbour, who was leaning out of his window smoking. He had also heard a loud bang.

The neighbour told the owner of the van what had happened and called the police.

Collete Orton, prosecuting, said, in a police interview, Prosser said she “hoped that smashing the van window would encourage the vehicle to be moved.”

David Howarth, defending, said Prosser “very much regretted” what she had done but had issues that “no doubt played their part in this.”

Mr Howarth said Prosser had family problems he refused to reveal in court and mental health issues.

He said Prosser is autistic, dyslexic, suffers “dramatic” asthma attacks and suffers from post-traumatic stress.

He added: “The van was a mobile mechanic’s vehicle and this brought back some issues from within the family. She saw this van and it reminded her of her brother and she couldn’t cope with being outside.”

Prosser was given a 12 month conditional discharge and must pay compensation of £294.36 for the smashed window, £135 costs and a £20 victim surcharge.