A FATHER-of-two mounted a campaign of fear against his estranged wife after their marriage crumbled, a court was told.

Burnley magistrates heard how computer-obsessed James Greenwood, who had earlier told his wife Ann he would be going to Moss Side to get a gun, sent her upsetting text messages and e-mails.

Greenwood said he would kill her and "do life" for her and told his frightened victim she would be going to heaven.

She became so distressed by his behaviour she was at her wits' end and on one occasion she had a panic attack, was struggling to breathe and had to be admitted to hospital.

Mrs Greenwood, who became depressed and felt like a prisoner in her own home, feared her estranged partner might put his words into actions.

Greenwood, 48, of Newman Street, Burnley, admitted harrassment between July 15 and August 30.

He was made subject of an indefinite restraining order and given a six month curfew order from 10pm until 7am.

Greenwood had no previous convictions.

Bill Maude, prosecuting, said the Greenwoods had been married for 18 years but separated seven months ago and the defendant moved out.

Greenwood, who was obsessed with the computer and the internet, started sending offensive and threatening e-mails.

One referred to her father, who had died four years ago, and called her a "slag" and a "slapper" and another read: "Major house fire in Burnley this weekend. One woman dead."

The prosecutor said Mrs Greenwood was so distressed she contacted the internet provider and complained but nothing was done.

Sometimes she received messages which simply said: "Bang."