A HOMELESS drunk has been slapped with an Asbo banning him from begging on the streets.

Roy Sutton has also been banned from selling items, including matches, to passers-by and from drinking in public.

The 31-year-old became homeless after he was booted out of his flat in Ryedene Close, Vange, in March this year after falling behind with his rent.

The alcoholic began living rough on the streets of Southend, where he was regularly caught boozing and begging by police.

Prosecuting for Essex Police, Claire Holmes told Basildon Magistrates’ Court that Sutton would regularly beg and try to sell matches to members of the public, including the elderly and children.

He also regularly became abusive to police when they tried to move him on.

She said: “He has been seen asking people for money and that does include [from] vulnerable persons.

“He has also been seen drinking alcohol in designated no drinking zones.

“The police have no choice but to approach him and move him and at that point he becomes abusive.”

A statement was also read out in court from shopkeeper Steve Franklin who said he regularly feels intimidated when Sutton stands boozing outside his High Street shop.

Giving evidence Sgt Ashley Holland, of Southend’s neighbourhood policing team, said Sutton’s abusive behaviour had left police with no other option than to apply for the antisocial behaviour order.

Sutton, who did not have legal representation, cried as he admitted he drank too much.

He said: “I don’t bully people and I don’t rob them.

“Sometimes I sell matches and sometimes I can’t afford matches so I beg.

“I’m homeless and I’m trying to give a little bit of service to people by giving directions and selling matches.

“I love Southend it’s a cool town, I’m not there to cause trouble.”

Under the Asbo, which will last for three years, Sutton is banned from: l Within the county of Essex approaching anyone to ask for money or to sell any items except for in the course of legitimate employment.

l Threatening, assaulting or intimidating any person including using abusive words or gestures to any person.

l Being drunk in a public place, consuming alcohol in any public place or possessing any open container of alcoholic beverage in a public place.