A LATE night argument twice landed refuse collector Anthony Michael Shaw in court.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Shaw was arrested for being drunk and disorderly and put before the courts the following day.

But a wrap of white powder found in his pocket needed to be analysed and it was two weeks before Shaw was back before the court, charged with possessing amphetamine.

Shaw, 20, of Sandhurst Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to possession of the drug.

Defence solicitor Basharat Ditta said but for the drug testing procedure, Shaw would have been dealt with for both offences together and the sentence imposed would not have been any more than that imposed for the drunk and disorderly offence.

The magistrates gave Shaw an absolute discharge and made no order for costs after saying they agreed with Mr Ditta.