A 27-YEAR-OLD man assaulted two police officers who went to a large scale disturbance in an Accrington street.

Blackburn magistrates heard Rafaqat Ali spat at a female officer and shouted racist abuse at her and her male colleague.

Ali, of Carter Street, pleaded guilty to two charges of police assault, racially aggravated threatening behaviour and obstructing police.

He was sentenced to 26 weeks in prison suspended for 18 months, made subject to community supervision for 18 months and must pay £100 compensation and £100 costs.

Julie Reddish, prosecuting, said police were called to Portland Street where two groups of males were fighting, some using weapons.

The men dispersed when police arrived and Ali was detained nearby. He became abusive and violent towards the officers when they tried to search him and spat at PC Jenna Millward.

Liz Parker, defending, said Ali was not part of the disturbance the police were called to and felt aggrieved when they wanted to search him.

“He had been drinking which affected the way he behaved,” said Mrs Parker.