A Norwich man jailed for harassing his neighbours has appeared in court accused of breaching a restraining order just weeks after his release from prison. 

Michael Beckett, 66, faces two charges of shouting abuse and threats at his neighbours in Nile Street between October 12 and 19 despite being banned from contact with them. 

Norwich Magistrates’ Court was told it was part of an ongoing dispute which had resumed following his release earlier this month.

Emma Pocknell, prosecuting, said his neighbours allege his erratic and unpredictable behaviour had made it very difficult to sell their house, with potential buyers cancelling viewings and offers.

Beckett was denied bail and remanded into custody after pleading not guilty. A further hearing to decide on a trial date will take place on October 25. 

The court was told he had no previous convictions until March this year when the neighbour dispute had escalated. 

Michael Cole, representing him, said: “He is not getting any active support in the community despite being diagnosed with an unstable personality disorder.”