CARAVAN resident Richard Branch tried to swing his pet cat around when police attempted to arrest him. In the process he was severely scratched by the animal, and the cat bit a police officer, Fenland magistrates heard. Branch, 38, of Turf Fen Bridge Cara

CARAVAN resident Richard Branch tried to swing his pet cat around when police attempted to arrest him.

In the process he was severely scratched by the animal, and the cat bit a police officer, Fenland magistrates heard.

Branch, 38, of Turf Fen Bridge Caravan Site, Murrow, admitted assaulting police officer Stacy Smith on December 11.

Police had gone to the site to arrest Branch for an alleged breach of the peace, said prosecutor John Goodier. "He had a cat in his possession, he became aggressive and tried to swing the cat around," he said.

When police tried to get hold of him he became violent. The cat grabbed Branch's arm and bit one of the officers.

Blood from Branch's injuries went on to Pc Smith, and Branch was restrained. He kicked Pc Smith.

Mitigating, Anita Waterman said: "He was extremely anxious about his cat when the police tried to take the animal from him.

"During the struggle over the cat his arms were severely scratched. There was no attempt to use his blood as a weapon. The kick was not deliberate, but reckless."

Branch was given a six-month supervision order to run alongside his current community order. He must also pay £60 costs.