AN ANTISOCIAL lout has been banned from entering churches and places of worship.

Richard Gray had visited sites and caused problems for many years in Sussex.

It included abusing a clergyman, and “persistent antisocial behaviour”, police said.

Now after appearing in court the 56-year-old, of no fixed address, has been given a Criminal Behaviour Order.

He must not enter any place of worship in West Sussex.

More specifically, he must also not enter Church Lane in Lyminster.

At Worthing Magistrates’ Court he was also put under a restraining order. It was revealed Gray also uses the alias Reverend Richard Gray.

PC Steven Self said: “I am pleased the court approved this application for a Criminal Behaviour Order against Gray.

“Gray was convicted of a public order offence in April following multiple reports of anti-social behaviour. Despite this, Gray’s behaviour has continued and so a Criminal Behaviour Order was sought.

“We are committed to putting a stop to anti-social behaviour and ensuring repeat offenders face the consequences of their actions.

“Anyone with concerns about anti-social behaviour is asked to report online or call 101.”

More information on anti-social behaviour can be found on the Sussex Police website.

You can keep up to date with court and crime reports on the new Facebook group here: Sussex crime and court watch