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Paul Hooper

A Margate alcoholic has been given a stern warning by a judge after TWO drunken attacks in one night:

“You have got to tackle your drink problem, otherwise you are likely to spend the rest of your life in a haze of alcohol or in a prison cell.”

Paula Hills, 34, had downed vodka and beer all day before beating up a friend outside St Paul’s Church in the town.

Hours later she armed herself with her boyfriend’s Samurai sword and threatened to kill a neighbour.

Now Hills, of College Road has been given an eight-month jail sentence suspended for two years – and ordered to stay clear of neighbour Michelle Hardiman for six months.

But the judge, Recorder Peter Morgan told her: “You deserve an immediate prison sentence but at the heart of your criminal behaviour is a drink problem.”

Prosecutor Bridget Todd told Canterbury Crown Court how assault victim Holly Valentine knew Hills because the two attended the church which provided hot meals.

But in July while Ms Valentine was standing outside St Paul’s talking to a friend Hills rode towards her on a bike.

“Hills immediately began shouting abuse before pushing and hitting her. As she fell to the ground the defendant then kicked her in the ribs and head,” she added.

Later the same evening, Hills was seen outside Ms Hardiman’s house armed with the sword making threats to kill her.

Ms Todd said that a police officer arrived and threatened to use a tazer unless Hills proved that she had dropped the weapon.

The abusive Hills was arrested and told how she had been drinking vodka and beer all day and remembered little of the incidents.

Hills had admitted assault and possessing a sword in a public place.