A former town crier has been given a five-year restraining order following his conviction for harassing a former friend after he realised she was in a relationship with someone else.

Edwin Godden, who was the Swaffham crier during the mid-2000s, was found guilty of harassment without violence at an earlier trial.

Godden, 52, of Queen Street in the town, appeared before King’s Lynn magistrates to be sentenced on Thursday.

Godden attended places where his victim was present, attempted to contact her, sent her unwanted e-mails, wrote to her employers and attempted to contact her partner.

Wayne Ablett, prosecuting, said the offences took place between December 28, 2022 and March 3, 2023.

He added in an impact statement, the victim said she met Godden after a difficult period in her life.

She said they had become friends but she had no choice but to contact police over his behaviour, which made her feel oppressed.

Mr Ablett said when he realised she was in a relationship with someone else, Godden “lost the plot”.

Charlotte Winchester, for Godden, said he was sorry for his behaviour.

She added: "They were in a relationship which clearly meant more to him than her.

"When it ended he struggled to move on."

She said Godden had lost his job and been unable to find employment.

She added he had lost all respect in the community and had undergone problems with his mental health and alcohol.

Magistrates sentenced him to an 18-month community order including 35 rehabilitation days, mental health treatment and 300 hours of unpaid work.

Godden was also given a five-year  restraining order not to contact the woman or her mother, not to go to the address where she resides and not to post about her on social media.

He was ordered to pay costs of £325 and a £114 victim surcharge.