A PENSIONER has been given a curfew after harassing and assaulting Kendal's town crier.

Michael Howard Barber admitted pursuing a course of conduct amounting to harassment when he appeared at South Cumbria Magistrates' Court last Wednesday.

Magistrates heard the 76-year-old, who gave his nationality as joint British and Canadian, had assaulted Kendal town crier John Bateson on November 25.

Between June 1 and July 12 of last year Barber also shouted abuse at Mr Bateson on a number of occasions and stared at him and followed him.

Barber, who was represented in court by John Halewood-Dodd, pleaded guilty to harassment and assault.

He was given a 12-week curfew requiring him to remain indoors at his home in Romney Gardens between the hours of 8pm and 6am.

He was also ordered to pay £170 in court costs and a £180 victim surcharge.

Mr Bateson was born and brought up in Oxenholme. He attended Kirkland Primary and Kendal Grammar School and worked initially in tourism and hospitality before taking early retirement to care for his mother.

He was Mayor of Kendal in 2009-2010 and was a Town Councillor for eight years. He has also served as a trustee to two local charities and is currently Chair of Kendal Civic Society.

He conducts history walks and talks on the subject of Kendal history.

When he was appointed as town crier in May 2019 he said: “I am delighted and honoured to be appointed as Town Crier of Kendal.

"The position of Town Crier is steeped in our history, and yet works so wonderfully well in a modern setting.

"It will give me great joy to promote my home town in such a unique and fascinating way.

" It is my aim to help promote our wonderful town’s cultural heritage, businesses, events and festivals and formal occasions.

"The retiring Crier, Richard Mathews, has been superb during his tenure and has enhanced the role of Crier to the delight of townsfolk and visitors.

"I hope to be able to continue his good work for many years to come.”