A STARK warning is being sent out to people planning noisy summer parties: Turn it down, or we will take your stereo.

The Blackburn with Darwen Council threat follows the prosecution of a man who has been hit with an anti-social behaviour warning -- and the threat of prison if he makes too much noise again.

Stuart Rushton, of Crediton Close, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to two breaches of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and was served with an Anti-Social Behaviour Order.

His equipment included a CD radio, digital receiver, DVD player, two video recorders, four loudspeakers, three hi-fi separates, a signal booster and a widescreen TV.

Under the terms of his ASBO, if he reoffends he could ultimately face a custodial sentence of up to five years. It is the first time an ASBO has been used to seize equipment in Lancashire.

Environmental health officers from Blackburn with Darwen Council sought the prosecution after he ignored repeated warnings to keep the noise down. It followed a detailed investigation and information gathering exercise by officers.

Coun Frank Connor, executive member for citizen and consumer rights, welcomed the prosecution and the ASBO.

He said: "This tough stance sent out a clear message that this kind of nuisance behaviour will not be tolerated. I give the environmental health division my full backing. They are putting in extra work to highlight and prosecute anyone found to be causing a nuisance to neighbours in this way.

"It is a sad fact that noise complaints go up during the warmer months. The lighter evenings mean that more people will be outdoors and in their gardens making the most of the summer.

"If they are using entertainment, or music, they should ensure that it does not impact on their neighbours.

"Unfortunately, some people hell bent on causing a nuisance use it as an added opportunity to make the lives of their neighbours a misery.

"This particular gentleman had ignored complaints from his neighbours and warnings from the council, so we were left with no alternative but to use the courts."

Mr Rushton was not available for comment.