A MAN has been made the subject of an anti-social behaviour order (Asbo) to stop him causing trouble for a community.

North Durham magistrates yesterday agreed to impose the Asbo restricting the activities of Thomas Coyle, 21.

The order was made following a joint application by police and Derwentside District Council, and follows repeated complaints about the behaviour of Coyle and some of his associates in the village of Catchgate, near Stanley.

It was unopposed by Coyle, of Harperley Gardens, Catchgate, who did not attend court.

Sergeant Susan Murray said she hoped the order would help to stem some of the nuisance and disorder people had suffered.

"We've had all sorts of incidents reported to us, from throwing snowballs at old ladies' faces, throwing things at houses and windows, swearing and abuse, usually as part of a crowd of young people. I'm personally delighted, and I'm sure the council and local people are as well."

Carl Taylor, anti-social behaviour assistant for Derwentside District Council, said that he planned to make sure local people were made aware of the terms of the order.

"We want the people to know we've taken action and should there be any breaches then we hope people will inform us."

As part of the order, Coyle is barred from entering an area around Rogerley Terrace, throwing missiles at people and property, and congregating in a group of more than three. He is also not to swear or be abusive in any public place and banned from driving motorcycles and cars in a manner likely to cause harassment, alarm and distress to people nearby.

The order, which runs for two years, is the tenth imposed in the Derwentside area.