A transsexual has been awarded #64,862 compensation after a tribunal found she was forced to endure 'an atmosphere of intimidation and hostility' while working for P&O Ferries.

Drusilla Marland, aged 48, of Bristol, worked as a repairer on the Pride of Bilbao from October 2002 until October 2004. The Southampton tribunal found that during this time she suffered verbal and physical harassment from the engine room crew and that she was constructively dismissed.

The tribunal heard that staff insisted Ms Marland should use the male changing room, that there was 'constant gender-based ribaldry' relating to the gender-reassignment and that a pornographic calendar was displayed with express references to Ms Marland in relation to the naked female pictures.

The report states: "This amounts very clearly to conduct which is capable of destroying the claimant's trust and confidence in her employers."