A 45-year-old woman launched a tirade at customers in a Harvester restaurant – calling one a “lesbian” and telling her she should have aborted her children.

Magistrates found Melanie Shaw guilty of a public order offence following the disturbance in the popular family eaterie on Margate Road, Herne Bay.

Police were called after Shaw was heard swearing at customers and upsetting children in the chain restaurant.

She was arrested and subsequently charged with using threatening or abusive words or behaviour or disorderly behaviour.

Shaw – also known as Melanie York – of Springhead Parkway, Northfleet, denied the offence, claiming she was provoked by other customers.

Margate Magistrates found her guilty of the offence, committed on Tuesday, June 30, and fined her £400.

She was also ordered to pay various costs bringing the total to more than £1,500.