A HANWELL resident faces losing his stereo equipment permanently after it was taken away by council officers.

Ealing Council's noise unit took its largest ever haul of stereo equipment, including speakers and decks worth thousands of pounds, from a house in Gifford Gardens.

A noise abatement notice was handed to the residents in January after complaints form neighbours about loud music coming from the house.

Despite repeated visits from officers to explain what the notice meant, three more breaches were recorded, leading to officers applying for a court order to seize the equipment last week.

Councillor Will Brooks, who is in charge of the Environment in Ealing, said: "It is unfair and inconsiderate to play music and make noise at such a level that it disrupts the lives of others.

"We keep the equipment for a month and then, if the problem persists, we will consider taking this to court."