A window fitter who stalked his estranged wife has been handed a 12-month restraining order and a six-month alcohol treatment programme.

Wayne Hurley, 43, of The Birches, Waltham Abbey, admitted persistently sending text messages and attending the Roundhills address of Lisa Hurley unannounced and entering, between February 1 and March 22.

Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court heard yesterday that he “popped” his head over the garden fence and went into the bathroom while Lisa Hurley was having a shower.

The two were married for 10 years and in a relationship for 16 years before separating in April 2013 when he moved to another address.

Lisa Hurley received a large amount of calls and text messages in a two month period after telling  Wayne Hurley she had met a new partner in December”

"He was also popping his head over the rear garden fence of the marital home and letting himself in, moving things around.

“Once she was in the shower and found he had walked in while she was having a shower.

“He left 10 minutes later."

Hurley told the court: "It was a breakdown of a marriage. I'm sorry for the offence, I'm very sorry to my wife.

He is also subject a nine-month supervision order and was ordered to pay costs of £85 and a £60 victim surcharge.