A drug addict who grabbed and spat at paramedics has been ordered to clean up his act.

Michael Nichols had suffered head injuries after getting blind drunk at Sackville Road in Hove in April this year, but when an ambulance crew went to help him he lashed out.

The 32-year-old admitted assaulting paramedics Samantha Hutchinson, Mark Dawson and Sam Carter after they were called at 10pm on the night of the incident.

He tried to refuse emergency treatment but the paramedics were worried about his state of intoxication and his injuries.

Nichols appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

Andrew Walker, prosecuting, said he first tried to grab Ms Hutchinson by the neck and made a movement to headbutt her.

Then after Mr Dawson tried to restrain him, Nichols tried to punch him, but was too drunk to be able to land the blow. Nichols then spat at Mr Carter after he had been restrained on the ambulance stretcher.

Police were called, and when a police officer arrived, Nichols kicked him in the chest from the stretcher.

Finally at hospital, Nichols used foul and abusive language towards hospital staff.

The court was told that Nichols, currently of no fixed abode but formerly of Portslade, has had problems with drugs and alcohol since he was very young and has recently been self medicating using Valium to ditch his heroin addiction.

He admitted three charges of common assault against the paramedics, assaulting a constable in the execution of their duty and using abusive language.

Joe Harrington, defending, said: “He is a 32-year-old man whose life appears to be something of a disaster. He has nowhere to stay and no permanent accommodation, and has drink and drug issues.

“He fully accepts that his behaviour was appalling. Thankfully no one was injured by his actions.”

Nichols has previous convictions for stealing and burglary, which he used to fund his drug addiction. He already owes the courts £1,900 in unpaid fines

Nichols said: “I just grazed my head, it was nothing serious. They were trying to help me out. I’m so apologetic.”

Magistrate Ann Gerrard said: “We have listened very carefully to what happened that night, and have great sympathy with the ambulance crew.

“We accept the remorse you have shown. Your life is a disaster, it has got to be sorted out. Let’s hope you turn your life around, now you have got to do the hard work.”

She said Nichols would not face a punitive element to his punishment, but ordered him to pay £85 for a victim surcharge.

Nichols must also complete a 12-month community order with 20 days of rehabilitation with Pavilions.