A MAN has appeared in court for leaving his ex-girlfriend unwanted gifts - including a framed Harry Potter picture and a snood.

James Brown, 48, of Ennerdale Road, Cleator Moor, pleaded guilty to harassment without violence.

Workington Magistrates' Court heard that Brown had repeatedly contacted his former partner and left her unwanted presents between March 13 and May 13.

Their relationship had ended in January but Brown repeatedly contacted his victim and went to her house after she had blocked his number.

She came home to find a snood posted through the letterbox and a note which said he loved her and wanted to be in a relationship with her.

On another occasion he left a framed Harry Potter poster -which she had bought him for Christmas - outside her address.

The court heard that he had also left notes on her car.

Brown had been contacting her regularly, sending messages by Facebook.

She had already told him to stop contacting her but he didn't seem to get the message and continued to try and contact her, the court was told.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said: "There was nothing of a nasty nature, unfortunately he just seems to be relentless.

"She simply isn't interested and has made that clear to him."

Brown was interviewed by police on April 13 and remained silent throughout the interview.

He continued to contact the woman while on bail, the court was told.

David Martin, defending, said: "It's really quite a sad case of a man who couldn't quite move on from a three-year relationship that ended suddenly.

"He was surprised when the relationship came to an end, all of a sudden.

"He knows he shouldn't have been leaving those messages. He was very upset and just wanted some closure.

"He understands it was the wrong approach. He is genuinely sorry."

Brown was given a six-month community order, with a curfew from 7pm to 7am.

He must also pay £85 costs and a £95 surcharge to fund victim services.