Two teenage women from Maidenhead were in court accused of assaults at Reading railway station after a “miscommunication” meant the case was not dropped, magistrates heard.

Hillary Murwisi and Monique Murwisi, both aged 18 and of Fifield Road, Fifield, have appeared at Reading Magistrates Court .

They spoke only to confirm their names and address, after which the prosecutor in the case told the magistrates the matter should be adjourned.

Emily Hodge, prosecuting, said: “Your worships, this is a slightly unusual one. It is straightforward in the sense that it is two assault by beating charges, one against each defendant.”

Ms Hodge went on to say that she had seen a “photograph of a letter” said to be received by one of the defendants from British Transport Police. The letter stated the prosecution was being dropped.

Hillary Murwisi had been charged with assaulting Bella Anuthida Pantangmorn by beating her at Reading railway station on Station Approach on February 2.

Monique Murwisi was charged with assaulting Marvel Mariama Sheriff-Kamara by beating her at the same place on the same date.

The prosecutor said the letter said “that charges were being [no further action’d) by police and yet they obviously found themselves charges with these offences.”

“I think it is only right that inquiries be completed. The letter has the emblem on it of the British Transport Police and has one officer’s name, but no contact information.”

Ms Hodge asked for an adjournment so she could make inquiries with BTP over whether such a letter had in fact been sent. 

“Did they indeed send that letter, was it that new evidence came to light, we do not have any indication”, Ms Hodge explained.

A lawyer defending the defendants said they had been “surprised” when they were charged with the offences.

The magistrates agreed to adjourn the case until September 11, pointing out that there appeared to have been “some miscommunication somewhere” and it was in the interests of justice to allow time for injuries to be made.

The two teenagers were both released on unconditional bail until that date, when a hearing was listed for 10am.