A POLICE officer called to a disturbance at a Padiham pub received conflicting messages about whether there was a problem.

Blackburn magistrates heard a group leaving the pub said there was trouble but a man at the bar said everything was calm.

As the officer was speaking to him he saw John Helliwell, who had drunk 20 pints by his own estimation, snap a snooker cue in half and then approach them waving it above his head.

Helliwell, 31, of Banksfield Avenue, Hebden Bridge, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour towards PC Thomas Heaton. A community order to which he was already subject, imposed for assaulting a police officer, was revoked and he was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison suspended for 12 months.

As part of the order he must complete six months’ substance rehabilitation requirement and 20 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement. He was ordered to pay £100 compensation to the officer, £85 costs and £128 victim surcharge.

Janice Vallance, prosecuting, said the officer attended at the Irish League Club on Livesey Street, Padiham, after police were told a man was fighting with a pool cue.

The group leaving the club confirmed there had been trouble but when the officer went inside a man standing at the bar said everything was calm.

“The officer then saw Helliwell snap a pool cue in half and approach them with it held above his head,” said Miss Vallance.

“He ignored the officer’s instruction to put it down and there was a struggle during which he was pepper sprayed. During his arrest he threatened to nut the officer and leg restraints had to be applied.”

Michael Alexander, defending, said his client bitterly regretted his behaviour.

“He can’t remember anything about the incident because he had been drinking heavily,” said Mr Alexander.

“He thinks he probably consumed about 20 pints and he has no recollection.”