A man who operated an unauthorised 'bar' from a boat has had the profits confiscated in a prosecution brought by Maldon District Council.

The council successfully prosecuted John Wilsdon over the 'bar' operated from a boat at Bridgemarsh Marina, Althorne, in a case heard at Chelmsford Crown Court on Thursday, 12 November.

The case against Wilsdon was brought under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) 2002, in what was the council's first prosecution under the Act.

The local authority was able to satisfy the court that Wilsdon had, through his criminal conduct, benefitted by the sum of £18,529 for which a full confiscation order was issued. Maldon District Council will receive £3,400. He was also ordered to pay the council's full costs of £16,664.28.

Wilsdon was also fined smaller sums for not complying with notices issued and costs were again awarded to the council.

Councillor Wendy Stamp, Leader of the Council, said: "I am pleased that the council's first case under the Proceeds of Crime Act has been successful and that the matter has now been resolved by the Crown Court.

"This case has taken a long time to come to court and I would like to thank the officers who have been working on this case for their hard work.

"This prosecution should send out a clear message that any enforcement breaches will be dealt with seriously by the council and as a last resort we will take action through the courts if we have to."