A MAN has appeared in court for assault after he spat at a Tesco employee during a heated dispute.

Antony Lowery, 41, pleaded guilty to assaulting a Tesco worker outside the Viaduct Street store, Huddersfield, on February 28 this year.

The court heard how Lowery had been drinking strong cider before going to the store to get food.

An argument broke out between staff and the defendant when no vegetarian meals were available.

He was escorted to the foyer where Lowery spat at the employee.

Representing Lowery, solicitor Carl Kingsley said his client should have known better.

He said: “He had managed to get through most his adult life with no convictions.

“He admits he had had far too much to drink.’’

Lowery pleaded guilty to common assault and a public order offence of using threatening behaviour likely to cause harassment, harm or distress.

He was given a £250 fine including £75 costs and £15 victim surcharge.