A man has refused to give up his home after he appeared in court.

John Patrick has lived at Bakers Nursery in Bakers Lane, Little Totham for 13 years.

He appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court today where he pleaded not guilty to dodging another enforcement notice to leave his home.

Maldon District Council have served a number of notices to Mr Patrick over the years, as well as refusing planning permission on the site.

Mr Patrick, who runs a garden nursery out of the property told the court he is at risk of becoming "homeless".

He told the magistrate, Barry Willden his situation was "complex".

Mr Patrick said: "I have a number of problems right now, my mum is in hospital and my dad is very seriously ill.

"He lives with me at the property and I am trying to deal other very issues at the moment.

"The issue of Bakers Nursery is quite a complex one that has been going on for 31-years.

"The property in question has been a garden nursery that whole time.

"I am trying to cooperate with the council, but I feel I should not have to be doing all of this when I have paid council tax on that property this whole time."

Mr Patrick, who represented himself in court told the bench he intends to appeal against the latest decision not to grant planning permission for lawful use, which was decided in October.

The property, officially defined by Maldon District Council as a "caravan", last period of temporary permission expired in July last year.

Mr Patrick added: "I have said to the council if I'm granted permission to build on the site of the old dwelling, I have said that I will demolish the old property as it cannot be moved."

Mr Patrick requested the court adjourn proceedings until after his appeal to Maldon District Council was determined.

Mr Willden told Mr Patrick: "I cannot comment on your appeal, that is something you will have to discuss with a solicitor.

"I think the most sensible thing is to get legal representation and discuss with them to matters involved.

"They will establish with the council what the issues are."

Mr Patrick will appear again at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on May 23.