Thanks for both replies. It was my birthday on Tuesday, had card and present from them via my aunt. No phone call or text message. Wasn't expecting it anyway.

Unfortunately, I do need to interact with him because of my mother's ongoing health problems. He's already suggesting a meeting to discuss those issues. That message came via my mother. I said I wasn't ready. I've lived in fear for ages now of him insisting that I move in with her.

May be difficult to get restraining order as she didn't actually hit me. After brother banged my car door twice, I've checked out any damage with garage as it's leased. Would have delighted in sending him the bill!

What really concerns me is that he's now saying that what goes on in their house is nothing to do with anyone else. In a way he's right, but that's no excuse for behaving as they do in front of their 14 year old daughter. Luckily, she's got more decency and integrity than her parents.

Now wondering if he'll tell our mother to f*** off when he finds out that she also said sister-in-law was drunk.

Also forgot to mention her constant criticism of me. Has her own agenda about my holidays, clothes, opinions. Been called a snob many times because I have standards. I could go on...….