A DRUNKEN man fresh out of jail ended up almost being knocked down after waking up in a "strange bed" on New Year's Day, a court heard.

Burnley Magistrates were told how Paul Ludlam, 35, had been spotted staggering all over Padiham Road, Burnley, and cars were having to swerve to avoid him. He greeted police with a "torrent of abuse" on his arrest.

Ludlam, of Thursby Road, Burnley, admitted being drunk and disorderly.

He was fined £50, with no costs.

Stephen Parker, prosecuting, told the court at 5pm the defendant had been bumping into cars.

He stood directly in front of a vehicle and was arrested. Ludlam had 75 previous convictions.

Ludlam's solicitor said the defendant had been released from prison on December 28. He went out for a drink at about 12ish with his brother, his brother left and the next thing Ludlam remembered was waking up in bed in a strange house.

He could not understand how he got to be there, got dressed and left.

Ludlam did not feel right and was trying to stop some cars to get help.