Becky Thompson of Bramstan Close, Bramley, caused havoc by playing dance music throughout the night and early hours of the morning, sparking complaints from many of her neighbours last September that the music was seriously disrupting their sleep and their quality of life.

Yet despite council officials issuing a Noise Abatement Notice to Ms Thompson in October, which warned her that action would be taken if she didn't turn the noise down, the music continued – and was repeatedly witnessed during visits by the council's Out of Hours Service.

In the face of these persistent breaches, last Friday officers obtained a warrant to enter the flat and yesterday (Tuesday, 1 July) seized audio equipment including a Hi-Fi, televisions and DVD players. The seizure of noise making equipment was carried out yesterday morning by officers of the Council's West North West Environmental Action Team.

The council is now considering taking out a prosecution against Ms Thompson for non-compliance with the abatement notice, potentially leading to forfeiture of the equipment.

The move came on the same day that Leeds City Council's Environment Action Teams launched a new campaign to encourage people to be considerate to their neighbours over noise.

Councillor Steve Smith, executive board member for environmental services, said: "Such action is always a last resort and never comes out of the blue – we repeatedly warn offenders that their behaviour is creating a nuisance. If they ignore those warnings, then we will act to remove the problem.

"Noise nuisance can make life hell for those who have to endure it. We would encourage everyone to show a little consideration for those around them."