AN ELLESMERE PORT man admitted he was "a complete idiot" when he shouted verbal abuse while drunk at a police officer in Chester.

Connor Duckworth, 24, of Cromwell Road, pleaded guilty at Chester Magistrates Court on Friday, July 13 to being drunk and disorderly on Foregate Street on the evening of June 24.

The offence put him in breach of a conditional discharge, but magistrates noted his remorse and fined him £50.

Prosecuting, Alan Curams said it was at 7.10pm when a police officer on foot patrol saw the defendant asleep on his back by the M&S store.

The officer checked to see if Duckworth was OK, gently shaking his legs, while noting there was an open alcohol container next to him.

Duckworth refused to give his details then became aggressive, and was said to be under the influence of alcohol.

He walked off towards a bus stop on Frodsham Street, shouting verbal abuse at the officer. A police colleague arrived and Duckworth was arrested.

Richard Simm, defending, said Duckworth had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity and he had admitted he "was a complete idiot".

All his offences had happened while he was in drink and he had long-standing periods where he had struggled to find accommodation but was now in a supported living scheme.

Mr Simm added: "He has not had a drink for four days now, he proudly tells me. He did see the officer the next day and did apologise for his behaviour."

The conditional discharge Duckworth had received was for when he had locked himself outside his accommodation and, while police told him to wait while they sought help to get him inside, he instead threw a brick through the window of the flat.

"It's just stupid things he has done," Mr Simm added.

Magistrates told Duckworth: "You and alcohol need to part ways, but you are beginning to see the light. Apologising to the officer has been noted."

As well as the fine, Duckworth must pay £85 court costs and a £30 victim surcharge.