CELTIC fan Martin Rolfe watched in a Church pub as his favourite team were beaten in a Scottish cup final on Sunday, and then drove off in the barman's car.

Blackburn magistrates heard that when he was arrested later in the evening, Rolfe was over the drink-drive limit and a check revealed that he was also disqualified from driving.

Rolfe, 19, of Norfolk Grove, Church, pleaded guilty to unauthorised taking of a car, disqualified driving, driving with excess alcohol and without insurance.

He was remanded in custody for the preparation of pre-sentence reports, which magistrates said should consider all options, including custody.

Peter Wild, prosecuting, said the barman had arrived for work at 6pm and left his car secure on the car park. At 9.30pm a customer said he had just seen Rolfe driving the vehicle.

When police arrived Rolfe ran off but he was found hiding in a bin-cupboard and arrested. Mr Wild said Rolfe was subject to three current disqualifications.

Elliott Taylforth, defending, said Rolfe had watched the CIS Cup final between Celtic and Rangers in the Thorn. "It was a complete and utter brainstorm that lead to him taking this car as he left," said Mr Taylforth.

He said Rolfe had an unenviable record but was making a determined effort to sort his life out. Mr Taylforth said Rolfe had secured gainful employment and was providing for himself and his 17-year-old girlfriend, who was expecting their child.