Tanya Seymour lost her home in Curling Way last month, after the District Judge at Newbury County Court accepted anonymous testimony from neighbours charting months of loud music, parties, and other anti-social acts.

This is the first time 'hearsay' evidence has been used locally to secure a conviction of anti-social behaviour, and the court have now banned Miss Seymour - who did not attend the hearing - from further harassing anyone on the Turnpike estate, or gathering in a crowd there.

Sovereign's Area Housing Manager Nick Cross said: "Residents often tell us they don't see the point in keeping diaries, but this shows just how effective they can be. The courts are more aware of how intimidating it can be to give evidence against a neighbour, and so are more likely to accept anonymous testimony.

"We would urge any of our tenants who are experiencing similar problems to get in touch."

It is the first time Sovereign Housing has used new powers in West Berkshire, under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003, and Seymour's eviction makes it very difficult for another social landlord to rehouse her.

The property is now being cleaned and made ready for a local family to move in to.