A MAN fined after a "racial" rumpus at a pub complained it was too much but has ended up being ordered to pay more besides.

Hard-up Graham Foster, 45, of Cobden Street, Nelson had been told to hand over £150 by Burnley magistrates, after earlier admitting racially aggravated threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour.

He appealed against the decision at Burnley Crown Court, but the bench dismissed his bid and told him to pay £75 costs as well.

He was also told to pay £50 costs in the lower court.

The crown court heard how Foster, who had been drinking, had found himself in a "provocative and difficult situation" last October 23.

There was "mutual" racist abuse in a disagreement in the Lord Nelson pub, police were called, the defendant was warned about a racist remark and made a further comment near an Asian officer.

He had previous convictions for police obstruction and public order offences and officers had trouble detaining him.

Throwing out his appeal, Recorder L Lowe, sitting with two justices, said Foster felt a sense of grievance.

He had been fined when others had behaved equally badly but were not before the court.

He added: "That's as maybe but it doesn't excuse your conduct." The judge told him: "The fine was entirely appropriate."

Hugh Barton, for the appellant, told the court Foster, who had just set up a business, was in financial difficulties and that was why he appealed in the first place.