A MAN has been given a community order after admitting he stalked a woman for nearly six weeks.

Ian Watkins pleaded guilty to one charge of stalking without fear, alarm or distress, when he appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court yesterday.

Magistrates sitting at the court were told how the 49-year-old, of Manor Close, Consett, stalked the woman several times between March 20 and May 2, this year.

Magistrates heard how he harassed the woman through his actions and stalked her in areas including the A19 Northbound, the Westlea area of Seaham, the car park at the Asda store in Seaham and The Avenue, also in Seaham.

After listening to the case, magistrate Denise Rowland made Watkins subject to a community order for a total of nine months as well as ordering him to complete eight rehabilitation activity requirement days to address his behaviour.

She also granted an application for a restraining order for the victim for a total period of one year.

The Northern Echo has since been contacted my a gentleman of the same name and street address. Ian Watkins, 46, of 9 Manor Close, Consett and a former Moorside Comprehensive School student is NOT connected to this case. The Northern Echo is happy to clarify and grateful to Mr Watkins for bringing it to our attention.