DAVID Goodwin objected when police entered his house uninvited after a scuffle broke out during his wife's 51st birthday celebration.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Goodwin swore at the officers and ordered them out before lunging at one.

But the court was also told it was the first time in 52 years that the former miner had stepped out of line.

Goodwin, 52, of Haslingden Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to obstructing a police officer. He was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £55 costs. A charge of affray was dismissed.

Clare Fanning, prosecuting, said that after initially barring their entry to the house, Goodwin had agreed to let the officers in. They thought there was a fight going on in the back, but Goodwin would not let them through to try and calm the situation. He then launched himself at the officer head-first and grabbed hold of him.

Sarah Perkins, defending, said her client did not accept everything the prosecution said, but did accept obstructing the officers. "He realises now that they were only doing their job," said Miss Perkins.

She said Goodwin's wife was celebrating her birthday and family and friends had gathered on the Sunday afternoon. They planned to go out for a meal that night and Goodwin, who was tired after looking after their grandchild the previous evening, had gone for a sleep at about 5pm.

"When he came down there was a scuffle in the front room and there was some arguing and he says the police came in without asking," said Miss Perkins.