Former Scotland international Colin Hendry has avoided prison after admitting to harassing a former partner through persistent unwanted contact over a six-week period.
The 59-year-old ex-footballer appeared at Preston Magistrates Court where he received a 12-month community order and restraining order.
The former Blackburn Rovers defender had previously entered a guilty plea to harassment without violence.
His campaign of unwanted contact continued despite police intervention, with the court hearing how he used various methods to reach his former partner after she ended their relationship.
Former Scotland international Colin Hendry has avoided prison after admitting to harassing a former partner through persistent unwanted contact over a six-week period
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Hendry, who earned 51 caps for Scotland during his playing career, attended court wearing a navy checked suit and dark sunglasses.
The court heard that Hendry subjected the woman to relentless contact through phone calls, emails and LinkedIn requests.
He also visited her home with handwritten correspondence, presents and floral arrangements, despite explicit requests to cease all communication.
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Colin Hendry won the Premier League title during his time at Blackburn Rovers
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His persistent behaviour continued for half a year, even after police had cautioned him to stop. The victim had clearly established boundaries following the end of their relationship, which Hendry repeatedly violated.
Natasha Clark, Senior Crown Prosecutor for Crown Prosecution Service North West, stated: "Colin Hendry harassed a former partner for over six weeks after their relationship ended after she stopped returning his calls.
“He ignored her wishes and breached boundaries she put in place, using multiple different platforms to contact her. Hendry’s behaviour was intimidating and persistent, causing the victim immense distress, but despite this he initially refused to accept it was harassment.
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“This outcome is a clear indication that the CPS will not hesitate to prosecute anyone guilty of harassment whether this is in person or online.”
The victim provided a statement detailing the severe psychological effects of Hendry's actions.
She reported experiencing depression and anxiety as a result of his conduct, and described being unable to leave her home due to fears of encountering him.
Hendry's football career included a pivotal role in Blackburn Rovers' 1995 Premier League triumph, making 234 appearances for the Lancashire club.
He subsequently joined Rangers in 1998, winning the treble despite limited appearances, before spells at Coventry City, Bolton Wanderers and Blackpool preceded his 2003 retirement.
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Colin Hendry tragically lost his wife Denise back in 2009
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The defender famously featured in England's Euro 96 campaign as the player Paul Gascoigne memorably lobbed to score his celebrated goal against Scotland.
Personal tragedy struck in July 2009 when his wife Denise passed away aged 43 from meningitis, resulting from complications following cosmetic surgery seven years earlier.