A homeless man who has become a persistent public nuisance has been banned from Durham city centre for two years.

Police have secured a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) against a prolific offender who has been causing extensive anti-social behaviour in the historic city.

Karl Cain, 44, of no fixed abode was charged with racially aggravated public order and assault following an incident at the Brass Festival on Sunday, July 7.

He was convicted at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court and made the subject of a CBO.

Inspector Dave Clarke, of Durham City Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “Cain has come into our city and caused havoc with his anti-social behaviour, which has spoilt it for the rest of us.

“We will not allow one person’s actions to have this effect on our community, and this is a clear demonstration that we will use every tool and power available to us to limit the impact.

“We will be monitoring Cain very closely throughout the duration of his CBO, and rest assured that we will not hesitate to use our power of arrest wherever and whenever it is called for."

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Insp Clarke added: "This is only one CBO against one individual, but let it be a message to others who engage in similar behaviour. We will act where necessary.

"We can and will make further applications to the courts for these orders.

“I would like to thank the community for their continued support and anyone with any concerns about anti-social behaviour can do via our live chat facility at Home | Durham Constabulary or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”