THREE drunken men who caused havoc in Colne after climbing the town hall clock tower have all been spared immediate jail.

Mark Chestney, 34, David Cook, 42 and Terry Saunders, 32, sparked a near eight hour seige with their crowd-pulling and "potentially dangerous" antics last September 6, Burnley Magistrates heard.

The main street, Albert Road, had to be closed, every available police officer in the area and the fire brigade were called in and the defendants caused damage to the tune of almost £2,000.

The court had heard how the escapade, which started because Cook was suicidal and scrambled up the scaffolding on the building as he wanted time alone, would have cost the public purse thousands of pounds.

Missiles were said to have been thrown and the men claimed to be involved with Fathers for Justice, made animal and Tarzan noises, shook the flagpole and barricaded themselves inside the bell tower as they played to the crowd.

The defendants had earlier been warned they could go to custody - but they have been made "prisoners," in their own homes instead.

All three, from Colne, admitted causing a public nuisance and were given 120 days in jail, suspended for two years.

Chestney, of Green Road, who also pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis and has almost 160 previous convictions, also received a four month curfew, seven days a week, between 7pm and 6am.

Cook and Saunders, both of Hawley Street, were each given curfews, seven days a week, between 7pm and 6am. Cook's is for three months and he also received 12 months supervision. Saunders must stay inside for four months. The bench made no order for costs but all defendants must each pay £260 compensation.

The court had been told how the three climbed onto the scaffolding at about 1am. The road around the town hall was cordoned off and police told the defendants several times to come down but they laughed and refused. Officers called in a negotiator after being met with laughter, taunts and jeers.

In the midst of the melee, the trio- one of them on incapacity benefits- climbed into the belltower, the bell started ringing and the clock fingers were moving rapidly backwards and forwards. Two fire engines, two ambulances and 12 officers- almost every police officer on duty in the area- were called in.

The court was told the drama ended at about 8.30am.

The defendants were arrested and questioned. All had criminal records. They denied causing damage or throwing things. Chestney, with 153 previous convictions under his belt, read a prepared statement, claiming the incident was for a laugh.

Cook said he had been depressed over not seeing his children and had wanted time alone. He claimed he had considered suicide whilst up the tower.

The court was told Saunders said he and Chestney climbed up behind Cook to prevent him injuring himself.