A 45-year-old has been banned from swearing for five years – even in his own home.

Magistrates imposed the condition as part of an anti-social behaviour order given to Paul Crick, of Eagle Close, Waltham Abbey.

Another condition bans him from dialling 999 to police and the ambulance service unless in a genuine emergency.

Chelmsford Magistrates' Court was told Crick made 171 999 calls between April 2012 and August this year.

And when police and paramedics arrived they were greeted with foul, abusive and aggressive behaviour, it is claimed.

Imposing the order, chairman of the magistrates Russell Pearson warned Crick: “No shouting, even in your own home if you are heard by all your neighbours.”

Crick, who has medical and alcohol problems, did not object to a joint application by Essex Police and Epping Forest District Council.

Crick, who is on long-term sick leave from his employer, was also ordered to pay £200 costs.

He told the court he had lost half his eyesight after suffering a stroke and said he was seeing an alcohol support group and a psychiatrist.