A LANCASTER photographer who threatened officers with his belt at the city's police station had to be restrained by the use of CS gas, a court heard.

Earlier on, Clive Dainty's partner had gone to a Lancaster pub to warn them he was en route and making violent threats.

The 49-year-old of Penryhn Road pleaded guilty to affray at an earlier hearing and was sentenced to eight months prison, suspended for two years. A suspended sentence supervision order was also attached.

Mr Paul Richardson, prosecuting, told Preston Crown Court Dainty and his girlfriend had been regulars at the Three Mariners pub in Lancaster.

At around 10.45pm on August 16 last year Dainty's partner had gone to the pub to warn them he was on his way and uttering threats of violence.

When police arrived, Dainty who works for a local newspaper, was in his car and upon seeing the landlady he became agitated and abusive. He was arrested for breach of the peace.

Mr Richardson said Dainty was taken to the police station and became unco-operative at the desk. When asked for his belt he wrapped it round his wrist, like a knuckle duster, then swung it about.

He told police: "You're going to get this if you come any closer."

Officers were fearful and warned Dainty CS gas would be used if he did not hand over the belt. The gas was used and he calmed down.

Mr Roger Hedgeland, defending, said two psychiatric reports were before the court. Dainty had made good progress since the offence.

Judge Townend told Dainty he had behaved badly and he needed to stop drinking.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.