Reveller burned policeman with cigarette

Victoria Griffiths, prosecuting, said the drama happened as officers tried to arrest 18-year-old Ashley Steven Birmingham for causing a disturbance outside The Hatchet pub in Newbury town centre.
She added: “He resisted arrest, pushing a burning cigarette into the officer’s hand, causing a painful blister. He then began spitting directly into the officer’s face.”
Mr Birmingham, of Maple Crescent, Newbury, was eventually overpowered and taken to the ground before being transferred to the police station, the court heard.
He admitted assaulting PC Christopher Andrews in the execution of his duty and using threatening words and behaviour on September 21 this year.
Magistrates were told he has previous convictions.
Moses Tawo, defending, said his client suffered from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and added: “He does not usually consume alcohol and has no recollection of what he did. None of his previous convictions are for assault.”
Magistrates bailed Mr Birmingham for pre-sentence reports to be prepared.