A man sent aggressive, threatening and racist e-mails to staff at council offices.

Blackburn magistrates heard John Schofield later told police he was annoyed the council wasn’t doing enough to help him.

Schofield, 38, of no fixed address, admitted to sending four offensive e-mails to Burnley Council. He was made subject to a 12-month community order with 30 rehab activity days. He was fined £40 with £85 costs.

District Judge Alexandra Preston said Schofield sent the e-mails at a time when he was very upset about his situation.

“I note you have significant mental health issues including a recent stay in hospital,” she said. “I accept these would have been sent in a moment of crisis and I think you need help and support from the Probation Service.”

Nicola Mills, prosecuting, said the e-mails were “aggressive, abusive and racist”. Once arrested, Schofield said he was annoyed at the lack of support he was receiving as a homeless person.

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said: “He knows it must have been very distressing for the members of staff who received them.”