A MAN who made a rude gesture to police in Dumbarton then told officers he’d take a “free lift” from them to Clydebank.

William Ward was caught gesturing at officers on mobile patrol in Stirling Road just before midnight on September 27 – and he got his wish when he was put in handcuffs and transported to the police station.

The 33-year-old, of no fixed address, appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last Wednesday to be sentenced after pleading guilty to a charge of threatening or abusive behaviour likely to cause fear or alarm – specifically by shouting, swearing and acting in an aggressive manner.

Prosecutor Martina McGuigan told the court: "Just before midnight police on mobile patrol saw Ward on Stirling Road.

“He made a middle finger gesture at them. They stopped and he became aggressive shouting at them, 'f*** you, c****'.

“He then said 'f*** it, I’ll take a free lift to Clydebank”.

He was warned about his abusive manner, but continued and was arrested and handcuffed and taken to Clydebank police office."

Defence lawyer Brian McGuire said: "He brought it upon himself. He had visited a friend who had fallen on difficult times.

“Drink was taken. It was sheer folly on his part.

“He is in a position to pay a financial penalty."

Sheriff William Gallacher told Ward: "The fine must be substantial considering your previous record.

“I take into account the fact you pleaded guilty at the earliest possible opportunity or it would have been £1500. I will limit the fine to £1000."

Ward was ordered to pay the fine at a rate of £40 per week.