IAN Thomas Moss, 38, of Bargee Close, Blackburn, was bound over in £50 to be of good behaviour for six months when he appeared before Blackburn magistrates.

A charge of being drunk and disorderly was withdrawn. The court heard that police on duty in Chapel Street, observing the prostitutes in the area, saw Moss staggering along the road. He became argumentative when asked what he was doing.

Lesley Halliwell, defending, said Moss had breathing difficulties following a house fire in which he inhaled harmful fumes.

On the night in question he had been drinking and was on his way to get a taxi home when he was spoken to by the police. "He is shocked to hear that it is alleged he had anything to do with prostitutes," said Miss Halliwell.

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