The following cases were heard at Reading and Slough Magistrates’ Courts: 

November 29

RUSSELL GALE, 54, of Nuthurst, Bracknell, admitted two counts of sending grossly offensive communications, namely voicemails, and one count of harassment in Berkshire between March 15 and March 26. Committed to prison for 18 weeks suspended for 18 months. Ordered to take part in up to 35 rehabilitation activity days. Must pay compensation of £100. 

November 30

BILLY SILK, 30, of Nine Mile Ride, Finchampstead, admitted taking a motor vehicle, namely a Mini Cooper, without the owner’s consent in Wokingham between May 11 and May 14, 2021. Also admitted driving without insurance and fraud by false representation, namely between the same dates used a bank card under the name of another person. Conditional discharge for three years. Banned from driving for 12 months. Must pay a £22 victim surcharge and 385 in court costs. 

December 3

CHRISTINE HANCOCK, 61, of Reeds Hill, Bracknell, admitted failing to give information relating to the identification of a driver when required at Banbury on April 27, 2021. Given six points on driving licence. Fined £150, must pay a £34 victim surcharge and £85 in court costs. 

A fundamental principle of justice is that it must be seen to be done. Open justice is acclaimed on a number of grounds: as a safeguard against judicial error, to assist the deterrent function of criminal trials and to permit the revelation of matters of interest.