A MAN spat in a police officer's face during an incident at Royal Blackburn Hospital.

Blackburn magistrates heard Harry Patrick Macintosh had been taken to hospital by police after telling them he had taken an overdose.

But he struggled with officers when he was told his tests were clear and he was being taken back into custody.

Macintosh, 22, of Parklands Way, Burnley, pleaded guilty to assaulting a police officer in the execution of his duty.

He was ordered to pay £50 compensation to the officer and the magistrates activated a 10-week suspended prison sentence.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said it was an unpleasant and degrading way to be assaulted.

"There is the risk and fear of infectious diseases which would class spitting as use of an offensive weapon," said Mr Robinson.

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said it was clear his client had mental health problems.

"His family have been trying to get him to get some help," said Mr Taylor.

"I would say he is not fully aware of what he is doing and therefore not in control of his actions."