A WOMAN has been acquitted of perverting the course of justice following a trial.

Rebecca Ayres, 39, of Silverdale Avenue, Westcliff, had always denied the two charges against her.

She was accused of providing false documents so she received points on her licence, rather than her former partner.

However Ms Ayres told police she was forced into taking the blame and assaulted, claiming she was under duress when filling out the forms after the speeding offences happened on May 27 and June 2 in south Essex.

Following a trial at Basildon Crown Court, a jury has returned unanimous not guilty verdicts on both counts against Ms Ayres.

Recorder Paul Sharkey then discharged the jury.

Ms Ayes was then free to leave the court.