Anthea Whittaker, of Cliffe Avenue, Lightcliffe, challenged a noise-abatement notice issued by Calderdale Council. But magistrates upheld the noise notice and ordered her to pay up. Neighbours complained that music at her home kept them awake at night and claimed problems stemmed back 15 years. “At least six neighbours have filled in log sheets,” said one neighbour, who did not wish to be named.

The notice was issued in August after environmental officers reported loud bass music had been playing for as long as five hours. Ms Whittaker, who is in her 50s, appealed to clear her name. Her son, Simon Bulgacs, 34, moved away 10 years ago and it was him that played the music when he stayed with his mother. But the notice was served on Ms Whittaker as owner of the private semi. Further problems could result in a warrant being issued to remove music equipment or a fine of up to ВЈ5,000.

“I refused to accept it was my fault,” said Ms Whittaker, a supply teacher. “I’m not at all happy and many things have been made up. My son went to court to take the blame but the court would not take that into account.” The council claimed an earlier order was served on Mr Bulgacs in June 2003 but he said that was never served personally and had not been recei ved. He is studying at Manchester University and said the August order resulted from an incident more than two years ago.

“I was the one playing the music and it is disgusting it was served on my mother,” he said. “It should have been served on me or changed into my name. “As a teenager I did a lot of DJ work and had a small stereo. I was living at home then and the neighbours did complain and I turned it down. “My personal equipment is not at home any more so they can’t confiscate it.