A MAN who has declared himself a one-man republic is to have his case heard by the European Court of Human Rights.

Owen Fenton, who has named his home Albion and declared it independent of the UK, has received a letter from the European Council saying the Court of Human Rights accepts he has an argument.

Mr Fenton, of Scarborough, North Yorkshire, made his stand in 2003 and argued he was not subject to taxation.

He now owes £807 to Scarborough Borough Council on his detached home for the past financial year. Previously, an anonymous benefactor paid his bill.

He said: "The American War of Independence established that British subjects can successfully declare themselves free of the rule of the British monarchy. I demand my freedom."

The letter from the European Council said the Court will deal with the case on the basis of information and documents supplied by Mr Fenton.

Owen Fenton has appeared in court for non-payment of council tax. His modest but detached home on Prospect Park, Scarborough has gardens to the front and rear.

He first wrote to the Government to notify officials of his independence on July 10, 2003, but received no reply.

The European Court of Human Rights has said Mr Fenton's case will be dealt with "as soon as is practicable."

Last year, an anonymous benefactor paid £567 for Mr Fenton's 2003/04 council tax bill. He has refused to pay council tax since declaring his house and land independent of the UK.

Mr Fenton believes he is a citizen and not a subject and that his case for an independent state is strong enough.

The council's strategic director of corporate services, Trevor Teasdale, said: "As far as Scarborough Council is concerned the rules regarding council tax apply to every resident of the borough."