A MAN begging outside Tesco became abusive and threatening when staff tried to move him on.

Blackburn magistrates heard Connor Wilkinson continued his behaviour even after the police arrived and he was arrested.

Wilkinson, 22, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour and admitted being in breach of a conditional discharge and failing to surrender to bail. He was fined for all offences but the penalty was set against the time he had already spent in custody. He was ordered to pay £34 victim surcharge.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said staff at Tesco in Blackburn had to call police because Wilkinson was causing issues, shouting, swearing and being verbally abusive.

"When the police arrived they were met with similar behaviour," said Mr Robinson.

He said the conditional discharge had been imposed after Wilkinson brandished a tent peg in the courtyard at the Salvation Army Hostel threatening violence towards other residents.

Ben Leech, defending, said his client didn't accept he had been begging.

He said the incident with the tent peg had resulted in Wilkinson losing his room at the Salvation Army.

"He was living at the homeless pods until they closed and he has been struggling since," said Mr Leech.

"His use of spice has affected his mental health. He recognises that he needs to address that and he is currently working with Inspire on a voluntary basis."