A STALKER who hid in his victim's loft has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Benjamin Mark Gould, aged 29, of Stray Park Road, Camborne, admitted committing the offence between December 5 and December 29.

On Thursday Bodmin magistrates heard how he send hundreds of offensive messages to the female victim.

They sentenced him to 20 weeks in prison, suspended for two years.

The reasons for custody were that he "bombarded the victim with text and other messages, hid in her loft and abused her verbally causing very severe distress".

Magistrates added that the actions were persistent and over a relatively prolonged period.

Gould was also required to comply with a supervision period of two years.

He must attend 24 building better relationships sessions and fulfil a rehabilitation activity requirement for a maximum of 12 days.

He must carry out 150 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months.

A restraining order was imposed for three years, prohibiting him from contacting the victim or from entering an address in Truro.

He must also pay £122 victim surcharge and £85 costs.