A 57-year-old man from Douglas has been fined £150 for being found drunk in a public place.

Christopher McEvoy, of James Street, admitted the offence and was also ordered to pay prosecution costs of £125 by High Bailiff Jayne Hughes.

Prosecuting advocate Roger Kane told the court how McEvoy called police to the lighthouse on South Quay in Douglas on April 1 after making a threat to self-harm.

He was said to be drunk and unsteady on his feet when officers arrived.

Police offered to take him home but he told them he would just return to the same spot so he was arrested for his own safety.

A probation report said that McEvoy had a sad case history of alcohol misuse going back 40 years.

He told probation: ’When I’m awake I drink, when I’m asleep I don’t.’

McEvoy also said that he did not want support so probation could not recommend a probation order or community service.

The court heard that he already has two fines outstanding with one not set to start until May 2022.

Defence advocate Stephen Wood said: ’We are dealing with a damaged man. He is not willing to change. That’s his choice.’

Mr Wood said that if McEvoy was sent to prison he may lose his accommodation.

High Bailiff Jayne Hughes told him: ’I am disappointed you are not willing to take help. You need to sort yourself out. You are still a relatively young man. You’re going to end up on my desk when I’m wearing my coroner of inquests hat.’

McEvoy will pay the latest fine at a rate of £15 per week at the conclusion of his other fines.