WOMEN and children were forced to cross the street to avoid a teenager using abusive and insulting language, a court heard yesterday.

Adam Farr, of Jedburgh Drive, Darlington, was arrested by police in Darlington at 5.30pm on October 25.

He admitted using threatening, abusive or insulting words.

South Durham Magistrates' Court, in Darlington, heard that the 19-year-old was expressing his displeasure after being assaulted by someone he did not know.

The bench also heard that he was already paying off fines to the court for two similar offences in April and August.

"We are concerned about the pattern that seems to be emerging. It is time you learned the lesson," said bench chairman Susan Snowdon. "

Farr was fined £134, which will be added to his existing fines.