A longstanding dispute between neighbors in Urchfont, Wiltshire, has escalated with a pensioner facing potential imprisonment over persistent harassment. Zoi Hayes, 68, is accused of intentionally running her lawnmower to disturb Peter and Corinne Rotherham, who have lived next door for 15 years.

The conflict reportedly began when the Rotherhams moved into the area, triggering a protracted feud that culminated in legal action. Hayes has admitted to breaching a restraining order by continuing her behavior, which the court described as harassment. This admission was made at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court, where she currently awaits sentencing.

Lawyers for Hayes have highlighted the long history of tensions between the neighbors, which have included various incidents over the years. The court records indicate that in 2021, Hayes was issued a restraining order designed to stop further contact or disturbances. Despite this, she breached the order, leading to a suspended sentence in 2023.

Prosecutors have emphasized that the repeated breaches underscore the seriousness of Hayes’s conduct, noting that the latest offense—operating a lawnmower to deliberately annoy the neighbors during a dinner party—is symptomatic of ongoing harassment.

The Rotherhams, aged 60 and 61, have reportedly endured years of disruption and distress as a result of the dispute. The court has yet to hand down a final sentence, but Hayes faces up to one year in prison for the current breach.

The case highlights the challenges courts face in managing prolonged neighbor disputes that escalate into legal offenses. The outcome will be closely watched, given the persistence of the behavior despite previous judicial interventions.