But Miss Boden’s involvement in the inspection that day led to her being accused of gross misconduct.

She was then pulled into a series of grievances procedures, handed a six-month suspension, and she eventually resigned beset by stress in July last year.

Mr Robinson was highly critical of her treatment.

He said: “The process took an inordinate length of time.

“Henk de Rooy was her accuser, yet he investigated the matter, Alex de Rooy dealt with the grievance and Jane Flemming, daughter, dealt with the disciplinary.

“That was particularly inappropriate as Jane Flemming was actually involved in the incident on November 25.

“They had been difficult, obstructive and vindictive, and there was no reason for it.”

Alec McFadden, Miss Boden’s union representative throughout the case, last night hailed the victory a “David versus Goliath style triumph”.

He said: “This slight, mature woman, who the employment judge correctly stated cares deeply about her work, has been able to stop a bully.

“Now the judgment is in, we will address the bigger problems through legal means and we may well be going to the Ombudsman.”

Miss Boden could also be entitled to financial settlement for lost earnings, unpaid overtime and hurt feelings from her former employers.

A remedy hearing will be arranged for a later date.