At 47-year-old Sarah Jane Hankins had never been before the court. As a caring lady she was clearly anxious about what others would think of her should she be found guilty of assaulting her father-in-law.

It was a case that CPS were intent to pursue despite, it is claimed, not being ready on the trial date of November 4th.

Twelve days later, just three days before the new trial date at Salisbury Magistrate Court, she was dead having to all appearances hung herself.

According to her husband Gary she had struggled with the pressure of going to court.

Something backed up by the firm of lawyers representing her. Richard Griffiths

"Richard Griffiths & Co made numerous representations to the Crown Prosecution Service that they should reconsider their decision to prosecute Sarah Hankins.

"She was a lady who had had no previous involvement with the Criminal Justice system of any kind.

"I have years of experience in conducting defended cases in the Magistrates Court and, without being too specific but with the benefit of detailed knowledge of Sarah’s defence, I would have been amazed had any Court convicted her. "The Crown Prosecution Service were given detailed evidence in support of Sarah’s defence which they chose either to ignore or disbelieve.

"To my mind it shows a failure to take responsibility and to stand up when there is overwhelming evidence that it is not in the public interest to continue with a prosecution.