A SKIPTON man has been told he faces a possible prison sentence over his harassment of his elderly neighbour.

Vincent Hawkins, 38, subjected the 79-year-old in North Parade to protracted harassment for more than three months from September last year, Skipton magistrates heard.

It included repeatedly banging on doors and windows, demanding money and food, and on one occasion threatening to assault the man's son if he did not provide what he wanted.

The man eventually put up a board in his window to stop Hawkins from looking in, and took to hiding in his own house, the court was told.

Hawkins, of North Parade, was due to stand trial on Monday after denying original charges of using violence to secure entry into the premises, and of common assault. But after admitting the new harassment charge, the original two were dismissed.

Prosecuting, Hilary Reece said on December 12 Hawkins had pushed past his neighbour and got into his house.

Hawkins had lost his temper after being denied money, shaking his fists and frightening the older man.

A board had been put up in his window, in an attempt to stop Hawkins from looking in, but he had climbed above it.

Mrs Reece said it was clear that the man needed protection from Hawkins and that a restraining order would be asked for.

In mitigation, John Mewies said the neighbours had originally been friends and that Hawkins had carried out odd jobs for his neighbour.

As far as Hawkins was aware, he was a support and not a problem, said Mr Mewies.

But he added Hawkins did have issues and that the relationship had fallen apart.

"He does accept that his behaviour did amount to harassment and accepts that it can't continue," he said.

Magistrates told Hawkins they were asking for a full report before sentencing on March 27 and warned him there was a serious chance of custody.

Hawkins, who turned up to court 15 minutes late, was also told although no action would be taken on this occasion, he must attend his next appearance in good time.

He was allowed bail on condition he did not communicate or approach the victim of his harassment in any way, including by electronic means.