A DRUNKEN man who sank his teeth into two police officers spent £160 a month on alcohol, a court was told.

Burnley magistrates heard how Liam Michael Taggart, 21, was appalled by his behaviour and had since seen his doctor.

The defendant, of Villiers Street, Burnley, admitted two charges of police assault and one of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour on May 12.

He was given a 12 month community order with supervision and 100 hours unpaid work. He must also pay £200 compensation and £50 costs. He had no previous convictions.

The bench told Taggart drink was the underlying factor to his conduct, it was something he needed to address and the Probation Service would be there to help him.

John Wilson, prosecuting, told the court police were called to an incident on Accrington Road, Burnley, where the defendant was being restrained by members of the public. He was on the ground, shouting and swearing, punching and kicking out.

An officer intervened and Taggart attempted to bite his hand. The defendant kicked the victim towards the head and the officer had to kick him back to get him to release his grip on his ankle.

Mr Wilson said other officers attended and Taggart was CS gassed. As het was being put in the back of the police vehicle, he bit another officer on the shin.

The defendant, who was not legally represented, told the court: "I'm really appalled at what I have done and if I could turn the clock back I would."

He added he had seen his doctor with a view to being referred to the Gannow Lane Resource Centre.