A man who was pulled away by police after fighting with a man spouted racist abuse and declared himself proud to be white, Southend magistrates heard.

Shaun Wootton, 19, of Eastwoodbury Close, Southend, also struggled with a special police constable while he was arrested, causing the officer minor injuries.

Wootton had earlier pleaded guilty to threatening behaviour and assaulting a police constable on October 16.

Prosecuting, Zarif Khan said Wootton was fighting with a man who was black and, as he was restrained by police, he made racist remarks.

Wootton was sentenced to 12 months' probation and 100 hours of community service, and was ordered to attend an alcohol self-management programme for up to 60 days.

He was also told to pay £100 in compensation for the assault on the officer and costs of £55.

Defending, Simon Samuels said: "There was an abuse of alcohol. He didn't want to go out that night. A friend persuaded him to and lent him money.

"He went to a local bar, Bar Central, which was having a promotion of three bottles of lager for £5.

"Mr Wootton didn't start the bad behaviour. He said he was attacked by a black youth as he left the nightclub. There had been a confrontation inside. He accepts he fought back.

"He has been totally traumatised by the threat of losing his liberty."

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