A mother-of-three, Charlene Harkin, 37, has shared her harrowing experience after being assaulted by another mother, Jessica Kitching, 25, during the school run in Lancaster in September 2023.

The incident occurred as Kitching was picking up her daughter from school. Tensions had escalated between the two women, whose daughters were previously friends, following a falling out during the school holidays.

In a shocking act, Kitching attacked Ms Harkin by dragging her to the ground by her ponytail and kicking her in the face while children were present. Despite Ms Harkin pleading for her to stop, Kitching continued the assault, threatening: "I know where you live. I'll f***ing kill you."

As a result of the attack, Ms Harkin suffered significant injuries, including grazes and bruises to her face, and required medical attention at Lancaster Royal Infirmary. Doctors suspected she might have a hairline fracture to her nose.

Reflecting on the trauma, Ms Harkin stated, "This has been a complete trauma for all of us. I have had to pull my three kids out of that school because I never felt we were safe." She took six months off work following the incident.

Preston Crown Court heard that Kitching was given a suspended prison sentence. Recorder Ayesha Siddiqi emphasized the seriousness of Kitching's behavior, especially as it unfolded near a school and in front of children. The judge noted that Kitching must have terrified Ms Harkin during the assault.

Ultimately, Kitching received a 30-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, alongside 15 days of rehabilitation activities and 60 hours of unpaid community work. Kitching, who has no prior convictions, pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm.