Francis on Friday.

Andrew James Gratton, 23, had admitted using offensive words to a Police officer in the early hours of October 5.

But he told Mr. Francis how he had been driven to using the word "bullsh**''.

Gratton, of Middle Road, Southampton, said he had kindly agreed to share a taxi ride with a stranger.

But during the journey he had difficulties trying to get the man to go halves with the expenses.

"He pretended he could not speak,'' Gratton said.

The cabbie stopped the car, and Police were called to the scene. They arrested Gratton.

"I was in shock. I was being arrested after all the good things I had done. I just could not believe this was happening.'' He added: "The word bullsh** must have slipped out.'' Mr. Francis fined Gratton $50 after giving him the benefit of the doubt.