A RECOVERING alcoholic who ripped a police officer's earpiece out has admitted he "fell off the wagon".

Dean Corbett, of Gresham Road, Dines Green, Worcester, was drunk when he turned up at his partner's house on Tuesday, January 29.

At Worcester Magistrates Court, the bench heard the 33-year-old, who has since referred himself to an alcohol advisory service, did not consume any drink over the festive period.

"Corbett is a reformed alcoholic who had, in his own words, fallen off the wagon," said Emma Lile, prosecuting.

When police arrived at the scene, they found Corbett verbally abusive and "flailing his arms around".

"He shouted, I'll knock your block off' and squared up to PC Davies with clenched fists," said Miss Lile.

"PC Davies was on his own that day and pressed the button on his radio to call for assistance. Corbett then ripped the radio and the ear piece from the officer."

Nick Roberts, defending, said his client had made huge progress since being released from prison just over 12 months ago and was "very contrite and apologetic".

The bench made Corbett - who had admitted disorderly conduct, criminal damage and resisting a police officer - subject to a 12-month community order with a total of 120 hours of unpaid work.

He was also ordered to pay £60 court costs and £5.50 compensation for breaking the police officer's ear piece.