POLICE on duty after the Blackburn v Burnley derby match saw a man holding a broken table above his head.

Blackburn magistrates heard Victor Knight quickly put down the table, but when he was arrested struggled with officers.

Knight, 29, of Sparth Avenue, Clayton-le-Moors, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour, and obstructing a police officer.

He was sentenced to eight weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months, fined £200, and ordered to pay £105 costs.

Scott Ainge, prosecuting, said officers were outside the Golden Cup pub, at 3.40pm, as the coaches carrying Burnley fans were being escorted out of town. Blackburn fans were vocal, and one was being arrested.

“That seemed to upset the Blackburn fans who became increasingly hostile towards the police,” said Mr Ainge. “The defendant picked up a wooden table and held it above his head in an obviously threatening gesture.”

When an officer took hold of Knight, he started to thrash around with his arms and legs, and other officers had to help handcuff him. Knight, who was not represented, said he was sorry. “I admit picking up the table but. when I realised what I was doing. I put it down,” said Knight. “I’ve been to hundreds of Rovers matches and I have never been in trouble at one before.”