A STUBBORN council house tenant, who subjected his neighbours to more than six months of noise and nuisance, has been finally evicted from his home.

Anthony Cosgrove (42), who lived in a flat in Sherbourne Court, Prestwich, was served with an eviction order by bailiffs and housing officers after his behaviour was classed as anti-social and "unacceptable".

Cosgrove moved into the local authority owned property during early summer last year and a catalogue of complaints was lodged against him by neighbours over loud music and rowdy gatherings.

After exhausting all other avenues to try and quell Cosgrove's activity, Bury Council applied to Salford County Court for a possession order which they granted in November. Cosgrove was allowed 28 days to vacate the property but when he failed to meet the deadline around Christmas time, council officers returned to the courts and successfully obtained an eviction order.

A council spokesman said Cosgrove was removed from the flat "without any trouble" and is now classed as "intentionally homeless".

Spokesman for Bury's housing services, Coun John Smith said: "We never take eviction proceedings lightly but we have made it clear that where there is blatant and persistent anti-social behaviour, with little or no regard for those who live nearby, we will act. Everyone has the right to enjoy the peace and quiet of their own home. It should not be spoilt by selfish and ignorant individuals."

Coun Smith said he knew the other residents in Sherbourne Court were pleased with the action taken by the council and happy their problems, caused by this particular tenant, were now over.

He warned similar steps would be taken to tackle any problems in the future and added: "We would always hope to amicably resolve difficulties between neighbours, but in cases of this type, we will not hesitate to take the necessary court action when we have the evidence to do so."