A MAN who swore at police officers while drunk in Wootton Bassett has been fined £40.

Peter Butler, 35, of The Rosary, appeared before North Wiltshire magistrates in Chippenham charged with being drunk and disorderly.

The court heard that on March 11 police were called to Longleaze Primary School, Wootton Bassett, shortly before midnight and found Butler lying on the ground outside the school.

Amanda Sawetz, prosecuting, said the officers managed to help Butler to his feet. "He smelled strongly of intoxicant and his speech was vague and unclear," she said.

Miss Sawetz said Butler then became aggressive towards the officers who, rather than antagonise him, walked back towards their car. She added that when Butler followed them shouting abuse and waving his arms around he "had to be taken to the ground and handcuffed".

Representing himself, Butler said he felt bad about the whole situation and admitted he had been drunk.