A drunkard said he was having a mental breakdown when he assaulted two police officers who were trying to arrest him.

Blackburn Magistrates' Court heard Kane Lucas got one officer in a headlock and pushed the other against a wall during a prolonged struggle.

Lucas, 31, of Anchor Avenue, Darwen, pleaded guilty to two charges of assault with intent to resist arrest on October 17.

He was made subject to a community order for 12 months, with 25 rehabilitation activity days and a requirement that he complete the Thinking Skills programme.

He was ordered to pay £100 compensation to each of the officers.

Julia Draper, prosecuting, said police initially responded to a call from a woman who said Lucas was heavily intoxicated and demanding to be let into her house.

He had left when police arrived but returned later and barged his way into the house.

He again left before they arrived but officers found him nearby and went to arrest him.

“He ran away but was chased by the officers,” she added.

“He grabbed one by the stab vest before getting him in a headlock. The second officer was thrown against a wall before the defendant was eventually arrested.”

Lucas, who was not represented, apologised for his behaviour.

“I was having a mental breakdown at the time,” he said.