A WOMAN whose tactile behaviour led to two sexual assault allegations has been cleared of the charges. But Mandy Clarke, 48, pleaded guilty to a charge of common assault on a 17-year-old electrician who was carrying out repairs at her housing associatio

A WOMAN whose "tactile behaviour" led to two sexual assault allegations has been cleared of the charges.

But Mandy Clarke, 48, pleaded guilty to a charge of common assault on a 17-year-old electrician who was carrying out repairs at her housing association flat.

Judge Gareth Davies gave her a 12-month conditional discharge at Luton Crown Court on Tuesday.

Clarke, of Old Bridge Court, Shefford, originally faced two allegations of sexual assault against the teenager and his 23-year-old foreman.

At a trial last May a jury cleared her of the assault of the older man but failed to agree on a verdict on the other charge and a retrial was ordered.

That was due to take place on Tuesday. But in between the two hearings Clarke had been made the subject of an anti-social behaviour order.

Judge Davies said he would record a not guilty verdict on the sexual allegation, adding: "The situation has been dealt with partially by the imposition of the ASBO.

"But your behaviour had a worrying and confusing effect on the 17-year-old."

Beverley Cripps, prosecuting, said the workmen visited the flat on April 20 last year and believed Clarke was drunk. She behaved in a bizarre way rubbing herself against them, it was alleged.

They made a report to their boss, but the matter was not reported to police.

Charges were made after police discovered the allegations during the gathering of evidence for the ASBO, the court was told.

Jane Bickerstaff, defending, said: "This is a lady who, whilst intending no harm, is a very tactile person.

"In this case in inappropriate circumstances she touched a young man without realising the effect it was having. It was not intended to be overtly sexual.