A WOMAN has been conditionally discharged after she was seen on CCTV assaulting a friend.

Samantha Preece entered a guilty plea when she appeared before magistrates in Hereford.

Prosecutor Peter Love said police had been called out by staff at Whitecross supported living facility, Pomona Place, on October 21, after a fight broke out between two residents.

The victim said she had been struck on the jaw during an argument with Preece inside the building, before the argument moved to steps outside the building, where Preece pushed her, causing her to grab the handrail out of fear she was going to fall down the steps.

Preece was arrested after police were shown the home’s CCTV footage of both incidents.

In interview, she admitted there had been a disagreement and said the victim had been under the influence of alcohol.

Marilena Di Vitantonio, for Preece, said the 45-year-old had been friends with the victim for a number of years.

“She and the victim had a drink before going shopping that day," Miss Di Vitantonio said.

“She said the victim created a scene in the supermarket, and she told her to calm down so they would not be told to leave, which they were.

"Later they argued and the victim said some personal things which pushed her buttons. She admits she may have gone that bit too far.”

The court heard Preece is now accessing support from mental health services and Addaction.

Preece, of Pomona Place, Hereford, was conditionally discharged for 12 months. She must pay costs of £100 and a £22 victim surcharge.