A DRUNKEN woman refused to leave hospital despite being discharged by staff.

Blackburn magistrates heard police who attended to assist found Bernadette Anne Avery lying in a cubicle rambling drunkenly.

Avery, 54, of Linden Crescent, Darwen, was convicted in her absence of causing a nuisance on NHS premises. She was fined £660 with £85 costs and £66 victim surcharge.

Andy Robinson, prosecuting, said Avery had refused to leave Royal Blackburn Hospital, and had thrown a drink on the floor.

“The officers noted that the ward was busy and the staff were under pressure,” said Mr Robinson.