MATTHEW Hirst ended up fighting with his friends after they tried to stop him arguing with a police officer late at night.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Hirst was seen banging on the window of a private hire taxi, demanding to be taken home.

A policeman explained that the driver did not have to take him home.

And Hirst replied that the officer was only taking his side because he was Asian.

Hirst, 24, of Sandy Lane, Darwen, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour and was fined £100 with £55 costs.

Roger Pickles, defending, said it had not been a good night for Hirst.

"He admits he had too much to drink and he is embarrassed about what took place," said Mr Pickles.

"It started as a row with a taxi driver but became a bit of a farce when my client and his friends started scuffling among themselves.

"He apologises to the police, the taxi driver and his friends."