A BUSKER in Oxford city centre with a string of convictions to his name has had his guitar confiscated after a series of complaints about the noise he makes.
Environmental health officers seized a guitar and amplifier from James Ludlow – who is also known as Marrion Cobraretti – on June 3.
The action came after the council received 19 complaints since January about Mr Ludlow’s performances in Cornmarket Street.
The move was welcomed by ROX traders’ association chairman Graham Jones, who said: “I have heard of him, and I know that he did cause problems for a number of businesses.
“Nobody is against busking, but when it is too loud for too long in the same patch it does have a negative effect on trade and it has caused big problems for some retailers.
“Traders held meetings with the city council before Christmas where the issue came up so I am pleased it is being acted on.”
Deputy Lord Mayor of Oxford and Carfax councillor Tony Brett said: “Busking on Cornmarket Street is better when there is no amplification involved and the performers use their own skills.
“I know it can be very intrusive on businesses and shops in the area.”
Mr Ludlow received his first verbal warning from council officers on January 21. He was given two further warnings in February before being issued a written warning advising him of the enforcement action.
In response to a complaint on March 28 and after officers witnessed him causing a noise nuisance, he was issued with an abatement notice under the environmental protection act 1990 and advised that a breach of the notice could result in confiscation.
Further breaches were witnessed on April 12 and June 3, when his equipment was confiscated.
Ludlow, of Field Avenue, Blackbird Leys, also has a series of criminal convictions including handling stolen goods, shoplifting, and a theft, for which he was jailed for five months.
City executive board member for cleaner, greener Oxford, John Tanner, said: “This busker was given numerous warnings which he chose to ignore. I am pleased that we were able to take this action and restore some peace to the streets of Oxford.”
The council also has the power to prosecute Mr Ludlow for breach of the abatement notice.
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