A WOMAN has been banned from begging for money for two years.

Ella Biggins was handed a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) for persistently begging and harassing members of the public for money in an intimidating or aggressive manner.

The 31-year-old, of Ditching Rise, was given the CBO from Brighton Magistrates’ Court on May 18.

It means she is banned from sitting, laying or loitering in a position with the intention to receive money in a public place within Brighton and Hove, and from causing harassment, alarm, or distress to members of the public when asking for money.

Biggins is also prohibited from entering any Pret-A-Manger establishment in the city.

Sussex Police said she will receive support from local community groups and will be required to attend regular appointments.

PC Kevin Michnowicz said: “I am pleased the court approved the application for a Criminal Behaviour Order against Ella to prevent her from causing distress to the public through her anti-social behaviour.

“I want to assure the public that we will continue to use anti-social behaviour legislation to ensure that offenders not only answer for their criminal behaviour, but that they are subject to ongoing restrictions, in order to provide a respite to individuals, businesses or communities."