A WOMAN accused of intimidating witnesses has been cleared of the charges.

Janice Vella was accused of intimidating two men outside Witham Magistrates' Court.

Her trial was due to take place next month, but the prosecution offered no evidence when she made a brief appearance at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Prosecutor Christopher Paxton said the matter had been considered carefully and the decision had been taken not to take the case any further.

Mrs Vella, 60, of Sandhurst Road, Tilbury, was formally discharged.

Judge Christopher Ball QC recorded verdicts of not guilty.

He told Mrs Vella: "This matter is now concluded and you are free to leave the dock."

Mrs Vella had been accused of intimidating Kevin Smith and David Carter by shouting at them on February 22.