A MAN who claimed he boxed for England challenged police officers to a fight after being stopped on suspicion of drink driving, a court heard.

An officer stopped Stephen Moore at 3.25am on August 18 after seeing him driving a white Vauxhall Combo Van erratically and at speed down a number of Darlington streets, the town’s magistrates’ court heard.

Prosecutor Chris Bunting said the 43-year-old of McIntyre Terrace, Bishop Auckland, initially cooperated and agreed to a roadside breath test.

However when asked about his age, Moore, who was given a suspended sentence in April this year for assault, became aggressive, telling the officer and his colleagues that he boxed for England before challenging them to a fight.

The court heard that even after he was taken to the police station, Moore continued to be abusive and shouted at officers.

Mr Bunting said Moore provided a breath test, which he failed, but refused to allow a blood sample.

He admitted failing to provide a specimen for analysis and his case was adjourned until September 19 for pre-sentence reports.

He was granted unconditional bail until his next appearance but was given an interim driving ban.