A DRUNK man found clutching a whisky bottle in Carlisle city centre became verbally abusive to police officers who tried to move him on.

But David Ireland, 34, who admitted he had misbehaved after “falling off the wagon”, told magistrates at the city’s Rickergate court: “I’m guilty of this offence but it’s not a sign of my character.”

The defendant, of Huntley Avenue, Penrith, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly on August 6 in Botchergate, Carlisle.

Prosecutor Pam Ward said Ireland came to the attention of police at around 11pm when door staff reported their concerns for him. “He was lying on the ground, intoxicated, and he had been abusive towards them,” said Mrs Ward.

“Other members of the public had tried to help the defendant; it was clear that he was drunk and had a bottle of whisky. He was slurring his speech and was abusive towards the police constables.”

He swore at the officers and then walked towards Wetherspoons, only to be thrown out a short time later by door staff there. As this happened, he hit the door with such force that it flung open, said Mrs Ward.

It was as he began walking away in the direction of Wetherspoons that the officers decided they had to arrest him.

They felt it was wise to remove him from the area, said Mrs Ward, to prevent an escalation of the situation.  But as they tried to search him, Ireland tried again to walk away and swore at the officers. 

From the dock of the court, Ireland said he had an issue with alcohol and had been to his GP but had not been listened to. He admitted he had relapsed, adding: “I am sorry. I was acting disproportionately.

“I don’t know who I am anymore.” Magistrates fined Ireland £40, with £85 costs and a £16 victim surcharge.