CHARGES against a man accused of Sexual Offences committed against a minor were dropped at Vale Royal Magistrates Court due to lack of evidence.

Colin Weeden, of Victoria House, Northwich, had been due to face charges of having inappropriately touched a girl aged between 13-16. But at the start of the case - after two not guilty pleas on previous appearances - the allegations were dropped.

However, Weeden pleaded guilty to the harassment of a Winsford woman between October 2005 and May 2006.

Prosecuting solicitor Catherine Whincup told the court: 'He was involved in a brief relationship, and was unhappy when it ended. He sent a series of letters and cards to the woman, which were not welcome and some of which were threatening in tone.

'Incidents of following her home and waiting outside her house intimidated her greatly. These incidents stopped early this year.'

Defending, Chris Johnson said his client was a 'vulnerable person'. He added: ' He genuinely hoped that his actions could rescue his relationship. He now accepts that this is not the case.'

Magistrates gave him a 12-month restraining order, fined him £60 and ordered him to pay £60 costs.