JUSTIN Mann apologised to Chippenham Magistrates on Monday for being rude to police when he was arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

Mann, 20, of Ridgemead, Calne, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly on July 13. He was fined £75 and ordered to pay £55 costs.

Michelle Hewitt, prosecuting, said Mann and two other men were approached by police outside garages in Dixon Way at 9.45pm.

"The defendant was abusive towards the officers and to residents," said Ms Hewitt.

She said the two other men told officers they had been out drinking, celebrating a birthday, and were on their way home.

Mann was swearing and, when officers approached him, his breath smelt of alcohol. His eyes were glazed, his legs were unsteady and he was clearly drunk," she said.

Police officers warned him about his behaviour, and suggested he go home.

Ms Hewitt said Mann walked 200 yards down the road, but continued to shout abuse to residents. He was given a verbal warning about his behaviour by the police, which he ignored.

Mann, who was not represented in court by a solicitor, offered his apologies to the magistrates.

"I would like to apologise to the police officers, through the court," he said. "It was very irresponsible of me and won't happen again."

Magistrates chairman Graham Hogger said he appreciated the apology, but the punishment had to reflect the insult to neighbours and the police.