A SERVICEMAN stalker who wrote off his ex’s car and damaged her new partner’s vehicle has been jailed for more than two-and-a-half years.

RAF Brize Norton-based Paul Lurkins’ stalking campaign began when his short relationship with the victim broke down.

The 54-year-old followed her to her parents’ and grandparents’ homes, a hospital and also peeped through the window of a pub when she was out.

The woman, who was sent abusive messages by Lurkins, suffered harassment in 2017 and 2018.

In June, he was convicted at Reading Crown Court of stalking and criminal damage. He has now been jailed for two years and nine months.

Specialist Investigator Beth McErlain, said: “No person should have to endure what the victim in this case had to endure. Lurkins' inability to accept that the relationship was over caused deep anguish and distress for his victim.

“She had to leave the home where she was living with her family, her car had been written off, she reduced contact with her family to prevent Lurkins from trying to locate her, she has to continually check her new car is safe to drive, and is unable to have a public presence on social media.

“Lurkins, has rightly been given a custodial sentence and I hope this allows the victim to move on from the terrible ordeal she underwent and continue to build a new life for herself.”

The offences were carried out in Slough, Kenilworth, Coventry and Bristol.

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For news updates straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on news@nqo.com or 01865 425 445.