A WOMAN entered the buffer zone outside the BPAS abortion clinic in Bournemouth to pray - breaching the PSPO order in place there.

The woman was pictured praying outside the clinic on November 25 at midday.

It is now an offence to do so after a Public Space Protection Order was put in place outside the clinic in Ophir Road last month.

A spokesperson from Bournemouth campaign group Sister Supporter said: “One of the most persistent anti-abortion protesters from the anti-abortion group in Bournemouth has decided to breach the PSPO.

“This violation puts her at risk of a fine or ending up in front of a court.

“We need to make the council and police abundantly aware that while these people continue to harass pregnant people and infringe on our right to access abortion healthcare safely and privately, we will not quit making a fuss.”

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A Dorset Police spokesperson said: “We received a report at 12.52pm on Friday, November 25 of two protestors in breach of a Public Space Protection Order in Ophir Road in Bournemouth.

“Dorset Police liaised with CSAS (Community Safety Accreditation Scheme) officers from the local authority, who attended in line with agreed protocols.

“It was further reported that the protestors had left prior to their arrival on scene.”

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “The PSPO is supported by the majority of residents and it’s good to see that additional powers are being used to address ASB issues in partnership with Dorset Police.

“The Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) team received complaints on Friday, November 25 from the clinic in Ophir Road in relation to people standing within the buffer zone.

“Our Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS) officers undertook patrols and engaged with those individuals, due to the complaints received.

“In cases where officers have reason to believe the person is breaching the PSPO conditions they may be asked to move on. Failure to leave the area when requested is a breach of the PSPO and the necessary formal action will be taken by the ASB team.”

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The PSPO (Public Space Protection Order) came into effect on Thursday October 13 in the area directly surrounding the BPAS Clinic on Ophir Road, Bournemouth.

It is in operation Monday to Friday, between the hours of 7am – 7pm, to cover the opening times of the clinic.

It is an offence to fail to comply with the order and could result in a fine or prosecution. Activities prohibited with the PSPO area include (but are not restricted to) protesting abortion services, handing out leaflets, intimidating visitors to the clinic or its staff, photographing or recording the clinic’s users or holding vigils.