A convicted burglar with a history of violence claimed that one of his human rights was breached when a civil court judge concluded that anti-social behaviour at his home was unacceptable.

John Boyd, who lived in Winchester and now resides in Bradford, West Yorkshire, appealed against the decision claiming that his right to a fair trial had been contravened because the county court judge relied on anonymous statements from neighbours.

He said because he did not know who is accusers were he was unable to cross examine them and test their evidence.

But the Court of Appeal today rejected his complaint and said the judge - who had heard evidence at Bradford County Court - had carried out an "evaluation exercise" in an "entirely proper manner".

Three appeal judges concluded, after a hearing in London, that the county court judge had made "careful findings".

A housing association had sought possession of Boyd's home in Woodside, Bradford, after neighbours complained of anti-social behaviour.

And the county court judge had said the level of anti-social behaviour justified a possession order.

Neighbours told of "shouting and screaming in the early hours" and said Boyd would knock on doors asking for money.

One said Boyd would "run around ... with his arms waving about" and seemed to be "on drugs".

Another said a visitor to Boyd's home had "knelt down on the ground and starting sniffing around like a dog" before "jumping around like a bird trying to take off".

Neighbours had said they were frightened of Boyd and would only give evidence if their identities were not revealed.

Appeal judges said Boyd had a "long" criminal history.

They said he had been jailed following a conviction for aggravated burglary and had a record which included offences of dishonesty, violence and intimidation.