A DRUNKEN man who took shelter from the rain in a doorway shouted racist abuse at residents who came out to complain.

Blackburn magistrates heard David Fallows was filmed by one witness on his mobile phone and arrested by a police officer who viewed the footage.

Fallows, 62, of Dunoon Drive, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to racially aggravated threatening behaviour. He was fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 costs and £30 victim surcharge.

Fallows told police he couldn't remember the incident.

Nick Dearing, defending, said his client had struggled with alcohol for many years which was reflected in his record.

"He is not a criminal, he is a man with a drink problem," said Mr Dearing. "He is trying to control that and spends his days walking along the canal and the byways, keeping away from drink."

He said on this occasion Fallows had gone into town and had drunk some strong cider.

"He wasn't wearing his waterproofs and took shelter in this doorway, which the residents objected to," said Mr Dearing.