A MENTALLY-ILL man has been detained in hospital after a prolonged outburst of ‘bizarre and racially-abusive’ behaviour.

Darren Croud, 22, threatened to kill someone and start a fire. He phoned the emergency services, then started singing ‘Glory, Glory Man United’ and, when police turned up, he had dropped his trousers, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Croud, of no fixed address, admitted possessing an offensive weapon, in Booth Road, Stacksteads, racially- aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress, and sending a grossly offensive message, and threats, last October 18.

He was given a hospital order, without restriction, by Recorder Suzanne Goddard, QC, who said he would not be released until medics decide he is fit to be back in the community.

David Macro, prosecuting, said Croud rang the police at 1.10am and told the operator he was a danger to himself, and to the public. He then rang the ambulance service, saying he needed an ambulance, and felt like he wanted to kill someone.

When police arrived, he produced a T-shaped screwdriver from his pocket.

Defending, Robert Elias said: “These are slightly disturbing offences. They are indicative of someone who clearly has mental issues and problems.”