Two Enniskillen men, who used disorderly behaviour and then proceeded to resist police, have been ordered to complete 50 hours of community service and face a period of probation.

Resident Magistrate Liam McNally heard how at approximately 12.05am on Sunday, 7th January, this year, police on patrol on Townhall Street, Enniskillen, intervened after they observed an altercation outside the Linen Hall Bar. The Court was told that the defendants, Gary McCusker from Lisgoole Park and Jason Crozier (18) from Drumawill Gardens, lashed out at police and became verbally abusive saying, 'F**k off, you fat black b*****ds'.

They were arrested for disorderly behaviour and resisting police. They were brought to Enniskillen Police Station where enroute they continued to be unco-operative and verbally abusive.

McCusker, the Court was told, had to be restrained and handcuffed and placed into the rear of the vehicle. He became extremely violent and headbutted the window. Both defendants admitted the offences of disorderly behaviour and resisting police. Crozier apologised and McCusker said he had no recollection of events.

Defending Crozier, Garry Smyth told the court that on the evening in question his client had been out with friends. He was part of a physical altercation in which he was assaulted. It was in the process of defending himself that police had become involved. McCusker had intervened when he saw the incident between Crozier and the third party.

Their behaviour towards police, Mr Symth accepted, was inappropriate.

Crozier he said, was in full-time employment and had a good work ethic. This was his first time before the court, he had pleaded guilty and he wanted to put the matter behind him.

Mr McNally said the defendants' behaviour on the night in question was 'absolutely appalling'. In relation to both defendants, he imposed a combination order, including a period of probation and 50 hours' community service.

McCusker was granted bail to appeal in a sum of £500.