A drunk nightclubber has been spared prison after using a torrent of abusive and racist language to police officers while out celebrating a new job.

Darren Oakley, of Weir Place, Kirton, near Felixstowe, pleaded guilty to threatening behaviour on December 13 when he appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court.

The 22-year-old also admitted assaulting a police officer when kicking out after his arrest.

The offences put Oakley in breach of a suspended prison sentence imposed on November 13.

Graham Skippen, representing Oakley, said his client was ashamed of his behaviour.

Mr Skippen added: “He can’t believe the words he said, but he can’t challenge any of it.

“He is not in any way racist. He was celebrating having got a new job.”

Asked by District Judge Celia Dawson why she should not implement his suspended prison sentence, Oakley replied: “I’m sorry. I’m truly sorry.

“I would never mean to do that. I want to keep my job and sort my life out.

“I really don’t want to go down this route. It’s just the drink. I’m going to cut it out.”

As part of his suspended sentence Oakley was ordered undertake an alcohol specified activity order.

Oakley’s latest arrest came after he left Liquid nightclub in Cardinal Park, Ipswich. The court was told he went up to police officers in the car park and began using racist language.

Despite being told to stop and given a chance to walk away, Oakley continued his behaviour and was arrested.

After his arrest he became aggressive and at one stage kicked out at officers striking one of them.

Sentencing Oakley District Judge Dawson said: “It’s a hard choice (deciding to send him to prison or not) but you are a young man. Quite clearly there’s some good in you.

“If it were not for the fact you got hopelessly drunk and behaved in this way you would be a perfectly useful member of society.

“These offences were appalling. You brought this on yourself.

“I’m going to give you a chance to complete this programme (the alcohol specified activity order).”

Oakley was made the subject of a curfew order from 8pm to 6pm for two months. He was also given a further 12-month supervision order and told to pay a total of £145 for costs and the victims’ fund.