A MAN was fined for swearing at police officers after a night of heavy drinking.

Michael Seer, 34, of Westfields, Wotton-under-Edge, was arrested by police officers in Dursley after using threatening and insulting language in front of women and children, which he also directed at police officers, Stroud Magistrates Court heard.

Nadeem Aullybocus, prosecuting, said: "Between 11.30pm and 12.20am on December 8 police attended Long Street, Dursley, where the defendant was seen shouting and swearing in the street, where adults and children were standing.

"Police took exception to some of his behaviour and felt it was unnecessary when women and children were present."

The police officers could smell alcohol on his breath and Seer was taken to Dursley police station.

When two police officers walked him back to his house Seer continued to shout and swear at them, and at one point stumbled into one of the officers.

After continuing to swear at the officers Seer was arrested and taken to Stroud police station, where he was charged with harassment.

Seer said in his defence: "I am very sorry for my disorderly conduct. I am not usually a violent person. I admit my behaviour was totally out of order."

Seer was fined £50 and must also pay £10 towards prosecution costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

Chairman of the bench Susan Hardisty said the fine was lowered because of Seer's financial situation.