A once law-abiding woman prosecuted for harassment has struggled to keep her life on track since the death of her son, a court heard.

Magistrates sitting at Carlisle's Rickergate courts complex heard how Susan Williamson, 52, made dozens of unwanted phone calls and sent more than 20 text messages to a local woman over three or four days – despite the victim pleading with her to stop.

Williamson, of Brough Street, Aspatria, admitted harassment.

Prosecutor Pam Ward told the court that many of the text messages were insulting and sexually explicit.

She committed the offences between July 26 and July 29.

But her defence solicitor Chris Toms explained that Williamson had sought help for her mental health problems but received “none.”

He said: “She has ongoing issues.”

Mr Toms pointed out that the messages sent by his client did not include any form of intimidation. Nor did she have alcohol or drug issues.

A Probation Service worker in court outlined the defendant's background, saying that she had a long history of mental health problem, all dating back 16 years ago to when she lost her son.

She said: “Her mental health conditions were related to her previous offences and since her release from custody last year she's had limited support – sporadic support from a crisis team.

“Her care has become disjointed.

“Until the death of her son 16 years ago, Mrs Williamson lived a law-abiding and pro-social life but it was her son's death that led to the deterioration of her mental health. It's something she's struggled to get on top of.

“She is in desperate need of support.”

Given her ongoing mental health conditions, Williamson was not suitable for unpaid work in the community.

Magistrates told the defendant that her offence was aggravated because the volume of unwanted messages she sent – 57 phone calls, and 22 text messages in just three of four days.

The chairman of the bench told the defendant: “They were of a sexual nature and your ignored the fact that she was distressed by this and that she asked you to stop. You have a very poor record when it comes to harassment.” Magistrates imposed a community order with a 40 day rehabilitation requirement.

They also ordered that Williamson observes a 7pm to 7am curfew for the next six weeks, and pay costs of £85, and an £85 victim surcharge.