A MAN who harassed a transgender woman for more than two years has been ordered to pay her compensation.

Edward Mills was found guilty of a hate crime after verbally abusing Lucy Nelson and was told to pay her £500, as well as court courts and complete 100 hours of unpaid work.

The 21-year-old, of Russell Close, Worthing was charged with one incident in Sheridan Road in the town on July 7 last year. But on the stand Ms Nelson told how he had repeatedly spoken to her in this manner on numerous occasions over two-and-a-half years.

She said: "The abuse had all got too much. I just wanted it all to stop so I could walk down the street without fear of being abused, for just living my life. I was surprised by how seriously the matter was taken, not just by the police, but by the courts.

"I was taken seriously throughout and now feel more confident in reporting matters to the police. I also feel the courts will hand down appropriate sentences.”

Sergeant Peter Allan, who specialises in hate crime and equality, applauded Ms Nelson’s bravery, adding: “I hope her positive experience will encourage other victims to report hate crime. This sentence, which included the imposing of a restraining order against Mills, sends out a clear signal we will take a robust approach against those who perpetrate hate crime.”