(595)  COCK-A-DOODLE-ASBO?

COCK-A-DOODLE-ASBO?

On 8 September 2006 Scottish Borders Council failed to obtain from Selkirk Sheriff Court an interim anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) to require Mr Kenneth Williamson of Selkirk to prevent his cockerel Charlie from crowing in the garden of his house between 10 at night and 7 in the morning and disturbing neighbours, notably those in a nearby bed-and-breakfast establishment.  A full hearing (of the case rather than Charlie’s vocal accomplishments) is to take place on 3 November, however, but Mr Williamson has meantime agreed to keep his fowl in a field 100 yards further away from the B&B.  Charlie’s crow has apparently been recorded at over 30 decibels, the level at which noise can cause sleep deprivation, and he shares his living quarters around Mr Williamson’s house with his dogs, hens and a goat.