A man told magistrates: "God bless you" after they gave him a conditional discharge for begging.
Ian Dines admitted the offence when he appeared at Colchester Magistrates' Court.
The court heard that just before 1am on August 16 police had seen Dines on Colchester High Street asking members of the public for money.
When cautioned, he told officers: "I'm only asking for loose change - give us a chance," the court was told.
Sharon Moore, prosecuting, said Dines had been cautioned for a similar matter last year.
Roger Brice, mitigating, said Dines, 41, of Buffett Way, Greenstead, Colchester, had a very small income, mental health problems and a drink problem, which he was addressing.
When magistrates imposed a six-month conditional discharge for the offence, Dines told them: "God bless you."
More in today's Evening Gazette
Published Friday, September 16, 2005
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article