A hate mail campaign spanning four years has left a man at the end of his tether.
Leon Isaac has been receiving dozens of postcards and letters from someone who calls themself the Phantom Poet.
The Phantom's letters have abused Mr Isaac about his Jewish religion and even tried to provoke trouble by writing obscene letters to strangers claiming to be from Mr Isaac.
Police say at least four other victims suffer regular post from the Phantom who could have sent hundreds of letters over the years.
Mr Isaac, 48, of Southend, said: "It all started when someone complained about me wearing cycle shorts in the Alexandra Road Synagogue and also criticised the fact my father's American friend was present.
"I wrote to a local paper about this and shortly after I received a postcard asking me whether I thought I was in the Tour-de-Stamford Hill - referring to a well known Jewish area in London.
"I threw it away and another ten or 12 came which I also threw away. They were coming twice a week at one stage."
Insp Kevin Turner, from Shoebury police, said: "We've carried out various inquiries and tests on the postcards and letters and are still trying to trace the person responsible."
Contact Mr Turner on 01702 431212.
Published Friday, February 7, 2003
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