A MAN who had drunk 10 pints threw a flower display into the fire in a pub and threatened a barman.

Burnley magistrates heard how Paul Greenwood, 28, who had already been barred from the Station Hotel, Earby, responded with obscenities when challenged by the landlord, but told police he did not feel drunk.

Greenwood, of South Avenue, Barnoldswick, admitted damaging property and threatening behaviour and was fined £50, with £30 compensation for the flowers, which burst into flames, and £60 costs. The bench told the defendant, who had claimed not to have much disposable income, that it was hard to believe when he could spend between £10 and £15 a session on beer.

David Lawson, defending, said Greenwood now freely admitted that after 10 pints of beer he would be drunk and apologised for his actions. There was no love lost between the publican and the defendant.

Greenwood's behaviour was over exuberance and frivolity on his part, he was ashamed and realised he had been childish. He had brought £30 with him to court to pay compensation for the flower display.