A "mortified" Swindon woman has appeared in court after slapping a police officer while in custody.

Pauline Baker, 51, of Acril Court, Old Town, was arrested on July 11 and refused to co-operate with officers at the police station.

At Swindon Magistrates' Court she pleaded guilty to assault by beating an emergency worker. The court heard how Baker had her handcuffs removed but refused to remove her hands from her pockets when asked.

Officers then tried to take her hands out, which is when Baker slapped a female officer on the forearm twice.

Ms Dunn, defending, said Baker had been drinking heavily for years but had been done so more recently due to struggles with anxiety.

She said Baker was “mortified” and had “little recollection of what happened” on the day of her arrest, adding that she was very apologetic and had sought help for her alcohol dependence.  

The magistrate said: “It’s not the most serious of offences but we obviously can’t have people injuring or hitting police officers.

“We have heard you are remorseful and we commend you for the work you have done in terms of alcohol use.”

Baker was fined £140 along with a £56 surcharge and £85 prosecution fees.