A TEENAGE habitual drinker has been jailed for 16 weeks after admitting a racially aggravated attack on a taxi driver.

Peter Loftus (18), of Redbank Road, Radcliffe, was arrested on March 6 after a night of drinking in Bury town centre.

Loftus appeared before Bury magistrates last Thursday, where he was also accused of criminal damage and the breach of an ASBO. He had pleaded guilty to all charges at an earlier appearance.

The court heard how Loftus was seen coming out of Sol Viva nightclub in Rochdale Road by police officers who were parked nearby. He was then seen to approach a taxi and punch the driver, Mr Khalid Mahmood, in the face.

Police heard him shout "Get back to Baghdad" before Loftus spat at him.

The police went over and Loftus ran off along The Rock but was caught outside the Natwest Bank where he was arrested and cautioned.

Loftus was placed in the rear of the police car, but kicked the door so hard that he bent the frame. The officers removed him from the vehicle but he swore at them and as he struggled and kicked, he smashed the cars rear side lights.

Loftus was dragged from the police car and arrested for criminal damage.

Miss Sally Pennie, prosecuting, said: "As the officers made their checks, they realised that Loftus was also subject to an ASBO, of which he was in breach, and he was arrested for this also."

The court heard how Loftus would use his wage from Pennine Construction to buy alcohol until the money ran out.

Mr Roger Taylor, defending, said: "Drinking to excess is the reason why he has got himself into so many difficulties. When he gets paid, he drinks. If he doesnt stop he is going to kill himself, or at least end up back before the courts. He needs help."

Bury Magistrates sentenced Loftus to 16 weeks in custody for the racially aggravated attack on Mr Mahmood and for breaching the ASBO. He was also sentenced to a further week in custody for the criminal damage, to run concurrently.

Speaking after the hearing, Detective Inspector Simon Collier, from Bury Police, said: "This particular incident involving the taxi driver was not reported to the police, but was witnessed by Police Constable James Podevyn who was on routine patrol. He acted immediately by pursuing Loftus and despite a violent struggle, detained him.

"This is an example of Greater Manchester Police being committed to delivering our service fairly and with integrity. Our communities will not tolerate racism or any form of discrimination. We are committed to providing reassurance to our communities and I hope that this case reinforces that commitment."