A CARER headbutted a police officer in the face after drinking more than 10 cans of alcohol.

Officers found drunk Michael Bull being restrained by his parents after a row and arrested the 36-year-old.

But as one officer grabbed him, Bull pulled back and headbutted the officer.

Appearing at Southampton Magistrates’ Court, Bull was sentenced to a community order.

The court heard how police were called to Bull’s address in Dean Road, Fair Oak, at 11.20pm on May 19, after a row broke out between him and his parents.

Prosecutor Rachel Standish said when officers arrived, they heard shouting coming from the property.

Ms Standish said one officer saw him being restrained by his parents and said Bull appeared to be “unstable on his feet and slurring his words”.

The officer asked if Bull had been drinking and he replied that he had consumed “about 11 cans” of alcohol.

But the court heard that as the officer attempted to handcuff the defendant, Bull headbutted the officer.

Ms Standish said: “He (Bull) lunged towards the officer and headbutted him on the mouth.”

Defending, Damian Hayes said Bull had a history of alcohol abuse, which had escalated since the breakdown of a relationship in 2015.

He said Bull, who works as a carer in a care home, also suffered from depression.

Mr Hayes said: “He is both apologetic and remorseful.

“His response after his charged was to say he was really sorry and he wrote a letter to the officer.”

Magistrates sentenced Bull, who pleaded guilty to assault, to a 12-month community order, including a six-month alcohol treatment requirement.

Bull was also fined £192, ordered to pay costs of £85, a victim surcharge of £85 and £100 in compensation to the officer.