A FALMOUTH man with a psychotic illness hoped he could form a relationship with a stranger "as a result of some sort of divine intervention".

Peter Smale, aged 61, of Webber Hill, was convicted of harassment on July 1 this year, after continually approaching the victim despite the fact that his attention was unwanted.

In Truro Crown Court today, Smale was sentenced for breaching a restraining order less than 24 hours after it was imposed.

Prosecutor Ian Graham said that the defendant returned to the address of the complainant in the early hours of July 2.

He said that Smale, who was "very ill" at the time, went to her flat, "shouting, making noises, scratching at the door and posting letters under the door".

His actions caused her misery and a feeling of panic, said Mr Graham.

Defending, Edward Bailey said that Smale had made good progress since the breach, having been admitted to Langdon Hospital, in Devon.

Addressing Smale, Judge Simon Carr said that the breach was "no doubt as a result of your ill health".

He added that he had become "fixated on a stranger" and had hoped that he could form a relationship with her "as a result of some sort of divine intervention".

Judge Carr added that the victim would not have known the extent of Smale's ill health and said that without medication, his psychotic behaviour could not be controlled.

Under section 37 of the Mental Health Act, he ordered Smale to remain in the care of Langdon Hospital until such time that those responsible for him felt he was able to return to the community.