A 32-year-old man who swore and lunged at police officers has appeared in court.

Paul Turbutt, of Wimbledon Close, Darlington, stuck two fingers up at the officers as they attended a disturbance in the town on August 16.

Darlington Magistrates' Court heard that Turbutt had been involved in an altercation with another man at a pub and the police were called.

When they arrived Turbutt stuck two fingers up at them and swore.

The officers spoke to him regarding his behaviour and asked him to leave the scene.

Derek Walton, prosecuting, said: "He again used bad language and lunged with fists clenched towards the police officers.

"He was taken to the floor and restrained by the officers."

Defending, Stephen Andrews said: "The situation was fuelled by alcohol. He is not normally in the habit of having a lot to drink.

"He was warned about his behaviour and he accepts that. It's something that is completely out of character."

Turbutt was given a 12- month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £60 costs.