A Kingsteignton man has been issued with a two-year Anti Social Behaviour Order.

Teignbridge District Council reported today that 40-year-old Jason Kerswell had been made the subject of a full ASBO by Torquay Magistrates following an application by themselves and the police.

The council statement said this followed a conviction for ‘sexual touching’ last October, for which Mr Kerswell was given a 12-month community order.

The statement went on: "Mr Kerswell, who has a history of mental health issues, has been banned from approaching staff from several local organisations when they are off-duty following a series of inappropriate visits to home addresses of employees.

"He has also been banned from impersonating a security officer, security guard, market researcher or charity collector, or from giving people the impression that he is working for these types of organisation."

Inspector Ian Curson of Devon and Cornwall police said: “My hope is that this ASBO will give Mr Kerswell cause to reflect on his behaviour and why we think it’s unacceptable.

"The aim is for this to act as a strong deterrent against behaving this way in future.

“If anyone believes the conditions of this ASBO have been breached, please call the police on 101. If you believe there to be a threat to someone’s safety or property, please call 999.”

Cllr Kevin Lake, Teignbridge Executive Spokesperson for Environment and Safety added: “This ASBO sends a clear message that we will take any action necessary against anyone behaving in an inappropriate way. This isn’t limited to the stereotypes involving low-level crime and alcohol abuse; it applies to any behaviour which causes other people distress.

“We live in a very safe area, but nevertheless we’d always remind people to check for proper identification from anybody claiming to represent a specific company, whether it’s on the street or on your doorstep.”