A SCUFFLE started between two men after one had taken drugs from the other’s pockets while he was asleep.

Police had gone to do a welfare check on a man in Cleator Moor on February 15. Officers arrived and saw two men having a ‘heated argument’ in an alleyway, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Pamlea, Fee, prosecuting, said they were ‘becoming aggressive’ and punches were being thrown. Alan Drinkwater, 32, was arrested.

He told police he had fallen asleep at the man’s house. The man, who used to be his friend, had gone through his pockets and taken some drugs from him, while he was asleep. This was what the scuffle was about.

Drinkwater said he wanted to get the drugs back because Xanex helps him stay off the drink. He said the other man ‘was not taking advantage of him when he was asleep’.

The defendant pleaded guilty to using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear of or provoke unlawful violence and failing to surrender to court bail.

John Cooper, defending, said: “There are issues with alcohol. [The other male] very clearly started it. When police turned up, he was still punching at him.

“[The other male] was out looking for trouble himself and found Mr Drinkwater.”

A probation officer said Drinkwater had alcohol and drug issues and was engaging with Recovery Steps.

Magistrates imposed a 12-month community order with 10 rehabilitation activity requirement days and a three-month alcohol treatment order.

Drinkwater, of Eskett View, Frizington, must also pay £85 costs and a £114 victim surcharge.