A "NEIGHBOUR from Hell" who blasted heavy metal music throughout the night has been fined and had his stereo seized.

Howard Crabtree, of Rossetti Avenue, Burnley, was fined £500 and ordered to pay a further £509 in costs when he appeared before Reedley Magistrates Court.

Neighbours near his home said their lives had been made a misery by his constant last night music playing, which often lasted until 3am.

One neighbour said he often played Metallica tracks after arguing with his girlfriend.

Crabtree did not attend court but was found guilty in his absence of breaching a noise abatement notice under the Environmental Protection Act.

Neighbours said that Crabtree has now moved from the area.

One, who asked not be named, said: "It was absolutely horrendous when he started playing his music. It wasn't quiet, it was incredibly loud. My grandaughter often stayed at my house and it was bad for her.

"I think I must have called the police more than 10 times on him.

"I know that he only ever played the music when he had fallen out with his girlfriend but unfortunately for us that was about two or three times every week."

Another neighbour added: "We're all glad that he's gone. He was very noisy and I've lost count of the number of times I reported him to the authorities."

The court was told that Burnley Council launched an investigation after complaints that Crabtree was playing loud music into the early hours.

The council sent Crabtree letters warning about his behaviour and offering advice on how to avoid causing a nuisance but the problems persisted.

The council used recording equipment to measure the level of noise nuisance and a legal noise abatement notice was served on him, requiring him to prevent further nuisance occurring.

Nichola Gannon from Burnley Council said: "The anti-social actions of this man were effecting other people and making their lives a misery and they were very grateful for the quick action the council took to prevent further nuisance and resolve this issue.

"Noise nuisance will not be tolerated."

Anyone suffering from nuisance neighbours can contact the council on 01282 425011.