A cafe owner was accused of “diabolical mental cruelty” by a magistrate for playing music full blast on his record player until 10.45pm.

Mr N J Pinagli of Francis House, Brooksby’s Walk, said his wife had “laid on his lap and cried” because Mr Perry’s music in the Orient Cafe next door prevented her from getting to sleep.

Apparently the music could be heard through the wall of the cinema next door.

Magistrate Frank Milton addressed the complainants at North London Magistrates’ Court: “You are not fond of rock and roll? I am not keen on any noise. I think it is a diabolical mental cruelty listening to this noise.”

He told Mr Perry: “This has got to stop. I should get rid of that thing.”

Perry pleaded not guilty but was granted a conditional discharge on payment of £3 costs.