Chesterfield magistrates were told last Wednesday that police received a complaint about a gang smashing bottles outside an address on Station Road.

Prosecutor Barry Swain said: "There had been a similar incident the night before and police were concerned for local residents."

Two officers attended the scene on 10th August and were confronted by Jamie Drysdale (18), Ricky Kemp (18) and a 17-year-old youth.

Mr Swain said a gang of about 12 more youths, all the worse for drink, joined the trio and began jeering at the officers.

The three were asked to move on but told police they could do nothing to make them leave.

"They were being abusive and aggressive, beckoning towards the officers to fight," Mr Swain said.

"They ignored warnings about their behaviour and struggled when they were arrested.

"Police acted with incredible restraint while under a great deal of pressure."

Drysdale, of Springfield Avenue, and Kemp, of Great Northern Cottages, admitted using threatening behaviour and Kemp also admitted being drunk and disorderly.

Magistrates said a major disturbance was caused and Kemp had shown 'contempt for police'.

He was fined £200 while Drysdale was fined £100. Each must also pay a £15 victims-of-crime surcharge and £43 costs.

The 17-year-old offender, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was being dealt with separately in the youth court.