AN ISLE of Wight alcoholic who started drinking when he was just seven years old has been sentenced for “diabolical behaviour” which saw him spit in a woman's face and assault two police officers.

Martin D’Arcy, of no fixed abode, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates on Friday, March 1.

The 54-year-old admitted two counts of assault by beating of an emergency worker, common assault, and criminal damage, in Sandown, on February 8.

Prosecutor, Munayah Hussan, said D'Arcy was verbally abusive toward a worker at Sandham House, going on to spit in her face.

Ms Hussan said the victim locked herself in her office, and when police arrived, D'Arcy was aggressive toward attending officers.

She said he tried to kick out at officers while being detained, 'donkey kicking' one of them in the legs before being taken to the floor.

The court heard he continued to resist, and while kicking out on the floor, he struck a second officer.

Ms Hussan said, after being arrested, he went on to throw coffee all over his cell.

Barry Arnett, defending, said D’Arcy was now homeless – evicted from Sandham House with immediate effect.

He described him as a Jekyll and Hyde character – “thoroughly pleasant” when sober, but a “horrible person” when he’s been drinking.

Mr Arnett said D’Arcy started drinking when he was just seven years old, and while he did go on to secure employment as a co-ordinator at a hospital, he eventually hit the buffers and became addicted to alcohol.

“It’s the evils of drinking,” said Mr Arnett.

“His behaviour is diabolical, and it is so sad.

“He knows he’s a broken man, and wishes he could turn the clock back.”

Mr Arnett went on to describe D’Arcy as being very genuine in his regret, and someone who needs to sort his drinking out.

D’Arcy was handed a six-week prison term, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay £150 compensation.