A 76-year-old man had to be arrested after his wife called police because he was drunk and being abusive.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Thomas Menzies McDonald refused to leave the house despite his wife Ivy, 80, telling police she was worried about what he might do to her.

McDonald, 71, of Taylor Close, Blackburn, admitted breach of the peace and was bound over in £50 for six months.

Scott Ainge, prosecuting, said Mrs McDonald told police her husband was a problem when he was in drink which he did regularly.

Roger Pickles, defending, said McDonald was embarrassed about his conduct on Saturday tea time.

"He has spent two nights in a police cell and he hasn't slept at all," said Mr Pickles. "He has now got to go home and make the peace with Ivy."