Man given curfew order

James Cramp, of Clifford Road, pleaded guilty at Hastings magistrates court to harassment of Catherine Dunn and breaking the restraining order banning him from any contact with her.

He was told he must stay at home between 7pm-7am for four weeks and not contact the victim or her family again.

He was also ordered to pay 40 costs

The prosecution told the court that Mr Cramp had known Catherine Dunn, 34, since she was a 15 year old at school, and "had a fascination with her ever since" which led to the restraining order being imposed in May 2006.

Wanting to make contact without going to her home he sent her a party invitation with a photograph which had their initials JC and CD written on it.

She realised immediately who had sent it according to the prosecution who said she was "angry and upset" and felt "uneasy". She knew that although he would not come to her mother's house he was nevertheless near by.

In her statement she commented: "I want him to leave me and all my family alone.

"He makes me feel nervous.

"I think he needs professional help. I have no idea what this man is capable of which makes me feel extremely frightened."

When questioned by Sussex Police, Mr Cramp admitted sending the invitation and said he had wanted Miss Dunn to have his contact details so she could get in touch with him if she wanted.

His defence suggested that Mr Cramp had mental health issues but fully accepted he should not have attempted to contact Miss Dunn.