PRINCESS Diana won a high court injunction against an alleged stalker last night. Mr Martin Stenning (36) is banned from approaching within 300 metres (yards) of her, or trying to communicate with her.
"My client has been compelled as a last resort to take legal action," the Princess's lawyer, Mr Anthony Julius, said. "She hopes that, as well as alleviating her own distress, this will highlight the destructive effect of persistent harassment on women's lives."
Mr Stenning is forbidden from "communicating with her, harassing or interfering with her safety, security or well being or behaving in any way which has the effect of disrupting her life" her solicitors said.
Mr Stenning is one of a number of photographers who regularly trail the princess. He waits every morning on a Suzuki motorbike for her to emerge from Kensington Palace.
She has had a series of clashes with him, and has taken his motorcycle helmet and his keys.
The princess has been pictured bursting into tears, and has accused the photographers of emotionally violating her.
Mr Stenning is quoted in the Sun today as saying after being presented with the writ: "I can't believe this is happening . . . Princess Diana takes my camera bag and I get served with an injunction. All I wanted to do was take a few photographs and earn some money. I spoke to her two days ago and she spoke to me just like a normal person."
The princess had told friends that Mr Stenning was making her life a misery and she was afraid to leave her home, said the newspaper.