Man told judge he would not pay fine

Robert Morley, 48, of Downham Place, St Annes, was told by a court clerk that he owed £2,440 in a fine, compensation and costs after being convicted of an offence of assault.

When asked by the clerk at Blackpool Magistrates’ Court if he had a solicitor, Morley replied: “I don’t use solicitors any more, they are all crooks.”

District Judge James Hatton then asked Morley: “What are your financial circumstances?” Morley replied: “It’s none of your business.”

The judge sentenced him to 45 days in prison suspended for 28 days, for him to start paying.

Morley said: “I’m not paying,” before the judge called for a security officer and Morley was escorted out.