A NOISY resident who kept her neighbours awake with loud music and ignored warning notices from Purbeck District Council has had to pay £1,115 after being taken to court.

Kate Ashton, aged 30, of Marsh Way, Swanage was prosecuted by the council after she breached the terms of a notice to stop causing excessive noise.

Bournemouth Magistrates Court was told that a noise abatement notice was served on Ashton in March this year after her neighbours complained to Purbeck District Council that she was playing loud music, both day and night, which prevented them from sleeping.

Ashton initially pleaded not guilty to the offence but changed her plea to guilty just before the case was due to go to court.

Councillor Beryl Ezzard, housing and social issues spokesman, said: “Everyone has the right to live their lives in peace without being disturbed by excessive noise which causes irritation and stress.

“I hope this case sends an example to others that the council will prosecute, if necessary, to protect residents from nuisance.”

The court imposed a fine of £100, a victim surcharge of £15 and ordered Ashton to pay a contribution of £1,000 to the council’s costs.