A WOMAN who spat at two council workers and racially abused another has been banned from begging anywhere in England.

Joanne Maria Igo, 40, was reported begging in Stockton 25 times between August 8 last year and March 2.

When an enforcement officer approached Igo about begging in September, she racially abused him.

And when challenged by two enforcement officers about her begging in June this year, Igo spat at them.

On Tuesday, Teesside Magistrates’ Court granted a Criminal Behaviour Order banning Igo from begging anywhere in England and Wales.

Igo could now face jail if she breaches the order, which is in place until July 21, 2025.

Councillor Steve Nelson, Stockton Borough Council’s cabinet member for access, communities and community safety, said: “We understand there can be a whole range of reasons behind begging and we always do everything we possibly can to help the person involved.

“We offer a wide range of support but when there’s aggressive behaviour or harassment we’ve also got to balance that with the need to protect people who come into our town centres to shop, do business or enjoy a night out.

“Unfortunately when people persist with this kind of behaviour we have no choice but to take more formal action as a last resort.

“Joanne Igo has been engaged in aggressive begging and other anti-social behaviour for a number of years now.

“Despite several warnings, alongside offers of support, she has continued to intimidate and threaten passers-by and indeed, our own staff.

“It’s not acceptable and we are pleased that the court decided to impose this Criminal Behaviour Order for such a long period.”

The order says Igo “must not – make any (or reasonably perceived) verbal, non-verbal or written request including the placing of hats, gloves or other containers from a standing, sitting or laying down position for money, donations or goods within England and Wales.”

To report problems with anti-social behaviour in Stockton-on-Tees, contact the council’s civic enforcement team on 01642 607943 or email civic.enforcement@stockton.gov.uk