DAVID Kealey made unwanted attempts at a reconciliation two years after separating from his wife.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Kealey embarked on a course of behaviour that amounted to harassment of his ex-wife which eventually led to her calling the police and him being arrested.

The court was told that as well as visits to her home and repeated telephone calls, Kealey sent a taxi to collect Vanessa Kealey to meet him for a meal and presented her with a bunch of flowers which she threw back in his face.

Kealey, 34, of Dyson Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to harassment.

He was given a conditional discharge for 18 months and made subject to a restraining order for three years.

Eddie Harrison, prosecuting, said that following the couple's separation they had remained friendly and arrangements were made for him to see the children.

"They seemed to be getting on quite well together and there were no problems until the end of March," said Mr Harrison.

He said Kealey went to his ex-wife's house and told her how much he loved her and that he couldn't live without her.

Over the next few days he phoned her numerous times and called at the house asking if they could resume their relationship.

On April 4 he phoned and asked her to go out with him but she told him to leave her alone.

"That evening a taxi arrived for her although she had made it clear she didn't want to go out," said Mr Harrison. "The following day he was waiting outside their four-year-old child's nursery with a large bunch of flowers which he gave to Mrs Kealey. She threw them back at him."

The next day he forced his way into her house and the police were called and on April 6 after another incident he was charged with harassment.

"She is at the end of her tether," said Mr Harrison. "He won't stay away or leave her alone and she has become increasingly concerned."

Michael Blacklidge, defending, said his client was a man of previous good character and there had been no difficulties since the relationship ended until two weeks ago.

"He felt that with a little effort from him the relationship could be rekindled," said Mr Blacklidge. "He was trying to explain to his ex-wife exactly how he felt."

The response was neutral and he felt that if he increased his level of commitment there might be a change.

"He accepts that he went round, sent cards and flowers and arranged the romantic meal and that he was rebuffed," said Mr Blacklidge. "It was clear she didn't welcome his attentions but he got it in his head and wasn't seeing clearly at the time."