A HOMOPHOBIC self-styled preacher says he will be able to speak without fear of being arrested after a landmark ruling.

Paul Shaw, 63, of Duffield Drive, Colchester, appeared in court twice this year.

He was cleared of using threatening words or behaviour after preaching in Colchester town centre and a case relating to leaflets denouncing homosexuality was discontinued.

Mr Shaw, who stood as a candidate to become Colchester’s MP, says a landmark decision means he will be able to speak out in public without fear of arrest.

Anthony Rollins, from Birmingham, was arrested in 2008 after a passer-by took offence at his remarks, but West Midlands Police have been ordered to pay him damages month. He has been awarded £4,000.

Mr Rollins claimed it was a victory for freedom of speech and the ruling could set a precedent.

Mr Shaw said: “I see this as a very important indicator and am hopeful the tide is turning back.

“I was intending to progress the fight through parliamentary means by writing to the Prime Minister.

“I still believe the law needs to be changed. Homosexuals are suggesting people like myself, who say homosexuality is wrong, should not be able to say it, but we should have the right to resist.”

Mr Shaw said he had no plans to claim damages against Essex Police for his arrest, but is pleased if he preaches against homosexuality in public in the future, he is less likely to be arrested.

He has written to the Prime Minister to try to get a change in the law. He wants employers to be able to refuse jobs to homosexuals.

Mr Shaw failed to attract support when he stood in the last general election. He got just 20 votes, the second lowest figure in the country.