A WOMAN who lifted her top to expose her breasts in the A&E department at Royal Blackburn Hospital racially abused security staff who tried to persuade her to cover up.

Blackburn magistrates heard Corallena Loveridge then kicked a police officer as he arrested her at the infirmary.

Loveridge, 29, of Fowler Height Close, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to racially aggravated threatening behaviour and assaulting an emergency worker in the execution of his duty. She was sentenced to 14 weeks in prison suspended for 12 months and made subject to a conditional discharge for 18 months. She was ordered to pay £40 compensation to each of her three victims.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said the incident occurred at 7.25 pm on May 22. Security staff attended at A&E after being made aware that Loveridge was causing problems.

"They heard her shouting and swearing and as they approached she lifted up her top, exposing her breasts," said Mrs Yates. "She made racist comments to both men and this was causing concern for elderly patients and young children who were present."

Loveridge was arrested but continued to shout and swear and kicked an officer twice on the knee. When she was interviewed Loveridge said she had drunk four small bottles of vodka and couldn't remember anything after that.

"She couldn't remember being in hospital or why she had gone there," said Mrs Yates. "When she was told what she had said and done she was extremely remorseful."

Gareth Price, defending, said at the time of the incident his client was suffering mental health problems and had turned to drink as a crutch.

"She had far too much to drink on this night and while she can't remember thinks she went to hospital seeking help with her mental health problems," said Mr Price. "She has moved on and has moved address and stopped drinking altogether."