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Man banned from home for 10 years Man banned from home for 10 years
(about 2 hours later)
A father-of-seven has been banned from entering his home town of Lydney for 10 years after a judge imposed an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo).A father-of-seven has been banned from entering his home town of Lydney for 10 years after a judge imposed an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo).
Mark Bowkett, 40, of Harrison Way, has 153 convictions, including threatening a number of local people with an axe.Mark Bowkett, 40, of Harrison Way, has 153 convictions, including threatening a number of local people with an axe.
Gloucester Magistrates' Court heard how he "bullied and intimidated" residents in the town.Gloucester Magistrates' Court heard how he "bullied and intimidated" residents in the town.
The order bans Bowkett from entering the exclusion zone without prior permission from a duty inspector.The order bans Bowkett from entering the exclusion zone without prior permission from a duty inspector.
'Career criminal''Career criminal'
Ch Insp Richard Smith, from Gloucestershire Police, said he was the "scourge of Lydney".Ch Insp Richard Smith, from Gloucestershire Police, said he was the "scourge of Lydney".
Mr Smith said Bowkett's criminal behaviour started in 1977 when, as an 11-year-old, he was convicted for burglary and theft.Mr Smith said Bowkett's criminal behaviour started in 1977 when, as an 11-year-old, he was convicted for burglary and theft.
"He has become not only a career criminal but also a common bully," he added."He has become not only a career criminal but also a common bully," he added.
"This may seem draconian, but it is the best way to make sure the people of Lydney can live without fear of intimidation or harassment.""This may seem draconian, but it is the best way to make sure the people of Lydney can live without fear of intimidation or harassment."
A family friend said his wife Cindy, 37, who is five weeks pregnant, is "devastated".A family friend said his wife Cindy, 37, who is five weeks pregnant, is "devastated".
Bowkett remains in custody for a seperate offence. Bowkett remains in custody for a separate offence.