A RETIRED seaman has been ordered to pay £500 compensation to a neighbour who he constantly harassed, threatened and 'tormented' with foul language, bonfires and loud music in Stroud.

Martin Solomon, 74, of Farmhill Lane, Paganhill was ordered by magistrates in Cheltenham to have treatment for alcohol dependency during the next six months.

Solomon pleaded guilty on Wednesday (January 6) to pursuing a course of harassment towards his neighbour in Farmhill Lane between May 4 and July 4 last year.

The charge stated that on 17 separate days during that period Solomon 'repeatedly and excessively shouted foul and abusive language that was audible to the victim within his own home or garden.'

It also specified that during that time Solomon had 'set bonfires and played excessively loud music that concerned, disturbed and tormented' the man.

Solomon also admitted a second charge - that on June 23 last year he used threatening, abusive or insulting words, or behaviour, with intent to cause the victim to believe unlawful violence would be used against him.

The magistrates ordered Solomon to pay the victim £500 compensation plus costs and surcharges totalling £180.

They placed him under a one year community order with a six months alcohol treatment requirement and a rehabilitation activity requirement.