A 23-YEAR-OLD man dressed as a policeman in a "bizarre" attempt to earn the respect of other members of the public.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Timothy Gareth Hayne had a full set of equipment, and when police searched his flat they even found a blue light similar to those seen on the roof of police cars.

Even after he was released on bail for the first offence, Hayne underwent a gradual transformation into a police officer' after obtaining a job as a security guard at a Blackburn shop.

Hayne, of Ocean Road, South Shields, was convicted after a trial of wearing a police uniform so as to closely resemble a constable, impersonating a constable, and possession of an offensive weapon, a cosh, in a public place.

He pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and without insurance, and obstructing a police officer.

He was sentenced to 180 days in custody, suspended for 18 months, made subject to community supervision for the same period, and ordered to pay £250 costs.

Charlotte Crane, prosecuting, said the first offence was in Blackpool when Hayne walked into the magistrates court wearing police uniform and told staff he wished to pay a fine.

He introduced himself as PC 816 Hayne and, after chatting with court staff, said he had to get back to the station to do some paperwork.

"The court staff were suspicious and contacted the real police who arrested the defendant," said Miss Crane.

"When he was interviewed he said he wore the uniform to afford himself protection from attack."

Police found the blue light in his flat. After being released on bail, Hayne moved to Blackburn where he got a job as a security guard after telling his prospective employer he had no previous convictions and had served in the armed forces.

He started work at Newmans Footwear, in Garden Street, and on his first day the manageress noticed he looked quite smart in black trousers and a white shirt.

Miss Crane said: "At first he came wearing a bullet- proof vest under his shirt. Then he wore it over his shirt, and subsequently added a belt, handcuffs and other pieces of equipment including collar number.

"The manageress decided to report the matter after her niece came to the shop and asked why they had a police officer on the front door.

"It is a bizarre set of circumstances and, perhaps, a sad set of circumstances."

Clare Knight, defending, said they were very unusual offences, and it was clear from the pre-sentence report there were a number of issues.

"In particular, the probation officer concludes that he wants to be liked by people, to be seen as someone who can be trusted and as a respected member of the community. It seems to be a case of keeping up appearances. He wants to belong and wants to be liked by people,"said Miss Knight.

She said Hayne had moved back to his native South Shields.