A MAN made a dramatic bid to escape from the dock at Blackburn magistrates court.

A 22-year-old defendant suddenly launched himself at the seven-foot Perspex security screen which stands on top of the dock.

He managed to get both hands on top of the screen but was then grabbed by the two security officers who had been flanking him.

As he was dragged down the defendant struggled violently, kicking out at the officers. They eventually took him to the floor where he appeared to suffer a seizure and lost consciousness.

More security staff came up from the cells and the defendant walked away in handcuffs in the incident on Tuesday.

A second disturbance broke out at the back of the court between three women.

Arron James Whitney, 22, of St Peter Street, Blackburn, was remanded in custody after pleading not guilty to three charges of assault, sending a grossly offensive message and harassment.

The trial will be heard at Blackpool magistrates on April 23.