STAFF and customers at the Halifax in Blackburn had to take refuge in a back room when a 50-year-old man ‘kicked off’ because he couldn’t get any money.

Blackburn magistrates heard James Barnes threw a stapler at a member of staff and then tried to tear a computer terminal off a desk as he shouted foul mouthed abuse. And when police caught up with him he spat in an officer’s face.

Barnes, of Wellington Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour, criminal damage to a computer monitor and assaulting a police officer.

He also pleaded guilty to breaching a restraining order by visiting the home of his former partner.

He was sentenced to eight weeks in prison suspended for 12 months, made subject to a 50 day rehabilitation activity requirement and ordered to pay £150 compensation to the Halifax, £50 to the police officer, £85 costs and £80 victim surcharge.

Philippa White, prosecuting, said Barnes went into the Halifax on King William Street at 3.10pm and tried to withdraw some cash. Staff asked for ID and wouldn’t accept the faded bus pass he offered.

They asked him for other information and eventually said there was nothing they could do,” said Mrs White.

“He became angry and abusive. Staff and customers moved into a back room for safety after he threw a stapler at a member of staff who was trying to help. A member of staff pressed the panic alarm before also retreating into the back room.”

Barnes was tracked by CCTV to the bus station where police approached him. He was abusive before spitting at the officer.