A man banned from entering any council buildings is running for re-election in his home town.

Noel O’Brien, who is standing as an Independent, is seeking to become a Rossendale councillor in the Helmshore local election despite an injunction banning him from setting foot on council property.

In 2011, Mr O’Brien, a former Labour councillor, was issued with an injunction after Rawtenstall County Court found him guilty of harassment and trespass.

Mr O’Brien has vowed to challenge the injunction, telling Manchester Evening News: ‘It was always my intention to have the injunction overturned, and I have written to the head of legal services and stated in no uncertain terms that I’m going to present myself at any location.’

In a statement, Rossendale Borough Council stresses Mr O’Brien will not be given permission to enter council premises.

‘If he were elected then he would not be able to sit on any committees or come to any council meetings as he would not be able to enter the council’s building,’ a spokesperson said.

‘The injunction lasts indefinitely.’