THE hero of two tours of duty in Afghanistan bared his teeth and growled at a female police officer when she went to arrest him for being drunk and disorderly.

Blackburn magistrates heard it was Lance Corporal Andrew Greenhalgh's fifth conviction for being drunk and disorderly.

But the court was told by his senior officer that the Army was prepared to help Greenhalgh combat his problems.

Greenhalgh, 27, of Singleton Road Weeton, Preston, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly in Railway Road, Darwen.

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He was given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £85 costs and £20 victim surcharge.

Passing sentence the chairman of the magistrates said it was clear drink had played a big part in his recent offending.

"We are delighted you are seeking help because you have a very good army record and it would be a shame to spoil that. We wish you luck," she said.

The senior officer said Greenhalgh had served his country with honour and bravery during two deployments to Afghanistan when he was involved in many fire fights with the enemy.

"During those he has seen friends and colleague killed and injured and this has taken its toll on him," he said.

"He was devastated to find his wife had been unfaithful which has destroyed his family life.

"He has been suffering from post-combat stress and has made a lot of mistakes.

"He is now seeking help and the army is prepared to help him move forward."