A DRUNKEN yob bit a policeman on the face while trying to escape arrest.

(Click here so start a discussion about this story in the forum.)

Alan Reid, of Trafford Avenue, Bewsey, bit the officer's left cheek during a struggle in Frederick Street last August.

Warrington Crown Court heard last Friday that Sgt Caswell and Reid, aged 35, fell to the floor. Reid, who had 22 previous convictions including assaulting a police officer, bit the sergeant who punched him twice in the face in defence.

Judge Thomas Teague said: "You fought back and in the course of the struggle bit him savagely on the face. An assault on a police officer while on duty is always a serious matter, but a bite on the face makes it all the worse."

Reid was chased and caught in nearby Black Bear Park after his brother and wife called the police reporting a disturbance.

He was escorted to a police car but when the sergeant opened the door, he pulled away.

Kerruish Jones, prosecuting barrister, said the sergeant's glasses were broken and Reid, who was heavily intoxicated', had to be put in leg restraints by other police officers.

Michael Davies, defending barrister, said: "He drinks too much, loses his temper and things happen."

Reid pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm. He had already served five months in custody and was sentenced to a community order under supervision.