AN Ellesmere Port woman who claimed there was drug-dealing going on at a local club was instead arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

Sarah Hickey, 49, of Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port, admitted the charge when she appeared at Chester Magistrates Court on Tuesday, February 20.

Prosecuting, Scott Woodward said it was on January 24 when police attended Whitby Sports and Social Club after Hickey rang 999, claiming drug-dealing had taken place there. A member of staff directed police towards the defendant, and officers noted she was unsteady on her feet and had slurred speech.

Her recollection was "unclear" and she "did not know" why officers were at the premises.

Hickey continued engaging with officers outside the club, but then began to raise her voice with them and refused to engage any more, and left.

While police were still at the premises, they were approached by a man who said a woman was crying near a bus stop, after the defendant had said to her: "Your skirt is too short and you are trying to set up someone."

Hickey was then arrested.

The court heard the defendant had 13 previous convictions for 22 offences.

Asked if she had anything to say, Hickey - representing herself in court - said: "No."

Magistrates fined her £40 and ordered her to pay £120 court costs and a £16 victim surcharge.