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A drunk who masturbated in front of children and families outside of a Cornish bowling alley later admitted to police he did “bosh one out”.

Thomas Howard, 28, was so drunk he lay on the floor outside Truro Bowl before taking out his penis and masturbating.

Howard, who now lives in supported accommodation in Liskeard, appeared at Bodmin Magistrates’ Court where he admitted a charge of outraging public decency.

The magistrates were told how, in February last year, at about 9:30pm police were called to Truro Bowl, which was at the time busy with children and families enjoying a Friday night out.

There had been complaints about an intoxicated man lying on the floor and refusing to leave.

Police then received a further call telling them that the man, Howard, was masturbating in full view of those entering and leaving the bowling alley.

Howard was then involved in an angry confrontation with the alley manager who called him “a sick b*stard” before Howard threatened him.

When interviewed by police and showed a video of his behaviour Howard, who has previous convictions for criminal damage and being drunk and disorderly, said “I did bosh one out”.

Defending Howard, Anita Hudson said that he couldn’t remember the incident and when confronted with the video he said “bloody hell”, “oh my god” and “no way”.

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She said: “He is disgusted with himself and agrees that his behaviour was no acceptable. He had a poor upbringing, a traumatic childhood and suffering from anxiety and depression.

“He was homeless at the time of the offence and living in a car-park. He was very drunk and not aware of what he was doing.”

After a brief period of deliberation the magistrates returned and gave Howard a 12-month conditional discharge, meaning he will not be punished unless he commits another offence.

He was also told to pay £100 in court costs and a £20 victim surcharge.