A 28-YEAR-OLD man headbutted a police officer driving him to the police station after he was arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

Blackburn magistrates were told the police car swerved across the road as the officer tried to protect himself.

And as he stopped his vehicle Mark Alan Heap tried to headbutt the officer again.

Heap, 28, of Hereford Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to assaulting a police officer. He was made subject to a community rehabilitation order for 18 months and ordered to pay £50 compensation to the officer and £65 costs.

John Wood, prosecuting, said Heap had been arrested outside the Jubilee public house and transport was called for.

PC Michael Smith put Heap in the back of his car and was taking him to Greenbank when he leaned forward between the front seats.

"The officer told him to sit back but he ignored the instruction and launched himself at the officer making contact with his jaw," said Mr Wood.

Sian Hall, defending, said: "What stands out from the pre-sentence report that has been prepared is that he is full of remorse," said Miss Hall.