A HALF-time cigarette almost cost football fan Clint Shackley the right to watch his Clarets heroes.

The Burnley fan took exception to a steward at Sunderland's FC's Stadium of Light who told him he couldn't smoke in the stands, Sunderland magistrates heard.

The row became so heated that a police officer intervened - only to be sworn at - before they arrested the irate Clarets fan.

Shackley, 35, of Dale Close, Burnley, admitted a public order offence when he appeared in court.

Paul Simpson, prosecuting, told the court the incident had occurred just after 4pm during the game on Saturday, November 29.

Solicitor Michael Robinson told the court the case had come to court twice previously, when Shackley had pleaded not guilty because the prosecution were planning to apply for a football banning order.

Mr Robinson said that threat had now been lifted and so Shackley was prepared to admit the offence.

He said: "There were people around him in the stands smoking and so he was smoking."

Shackley had been to get a drink at half-time and was returning to his seat when a steward said he could not smoke in the strands.

"Colourful language was used to express his amazement," said Mr Robinson.

He had used similar language when approached by the officer and found himself under arrest.

Shackley had lost his job as a result of having to attend court and was anxious to have the case dealt with.

He was fined £60.