Hercules tests neighbours strength

An unemployed man whose continuous noise landed him in court has had his television and music equipment taken away.

Neighbours of Martin Hercules, of Drake Court, Scotts Road, in Shepherds Bush, were subjected to constant excessive noise from his television set and numerous stereo systems over the past 18 months.

Hercules, 46, pleaded not guilty to breaching a noise abatement order at a hearing at West London Magistrates Court on November 25. That order was served on him in February last year.

At the trial, on March 4, the court found the H&F Homes tenant guilty and he was given a £150 fine. He was also ordered to pay a £15 victim surcharge and £600 in costs to Hammersmith & Fulham Council.

The court heard that a noise abatement notice had been served on Hercules following three complaints from neighbours in 2007. However, even though Hercules had been warned about his behaviour, he continued to disturb other residents with his incessant noise leading to another 14 complaints between January and May 2008.

The council seized noise equipment including a huge flat screen TV, amplifiers, hi-fis and several sets of speakers. His collection of hundreds of CDs was taken away as well and Hercules will not get any of his equipment back.

Hercules was also served with a notice seeking possession, which means that he could lose his flat if he continues to upset his neighbours.

Councillor Greg Smith, cabinet member for crime and street scene, said: ”The sheer amount of equipment that was seized by the council shows the extreme levels of noise that Hercules was making. We will not tolerate such antisocial behaviour in the borough and I hope that this conviction now offers some much deserved peace and quiet to his neighbours.”