Angry driver ripped off car's rear wiper on way to buy milk

Lee Kershaw, 23, of Bonnar Court, Hebburn ripped the rear wiper from a Mercedes after it stopped in front of him to allow a passenger out - leaving the female driver fearful of returning to the area.

Kershaw was on his way to buy milk from a corner shop, South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard.

Clare Irving, prosecuting, said: “The incident happened near Victoria Road East in Hebburn. The woman was parked in her car and became aware of the defendant outside and gesticulating. She then heard a noise from the back of her car.”

She said the wiper blade was later found at the back of the car.

“The driver later said she used to go to the area several times a week, but now no longer goes there because she is fearful.”

Kershaw admitted criminal damage on May 21.

Representing himself, Kershaw said: “I had gone out to buy milk and, as I pulled into the side turning, the Mercedes stopped in front of me so the driver could let her daughter get out to go to the shop.

“I was stuck in a dangerous position at the junction. I did wave my arms at the woman, and I did speak to her. The wiper was already hanging off, but I did pull it right off and drop it on the ground.”

The bench ordered Kershaw to pay £54.21 compensation for the wiper and £85 costs.