A MAN who tried to intimidate a witness ahead of a court case has been jailed for four months, police said today.

Clinton Foster, 18, of Woodfield Terrace, Brierfield, was arrested in the precincts of Burnley Crown Court yesterday after approaching a main prosecution witness.

Foster had been set to appear before the court charged with an offence of arson with intent to endanger life.

Police spokeswoman Sally Maude said: "Prior to commencement of proceedings, Foster was arrested within the precincts of the court by a Detective Constable for an offence of witness intimidation after approaching the main prosecution witness and intimidating him as he entered the court.

"He was immediately taken before Judge Barbara Watson where he was sentenced to four months imprisonment for contempt of court."

Today Detective Inspector Dermott Horrigan of Pendle CID welcomed the sentence handed down.

He said: "We are particularly pleased with this sentence of four months imprisonment."

The arson case was adjourned until January 19.