AN English Defence League supporter kicked out at a police dog and attacked a police officer during the organisation’s mass rally in Bolton town centre earlier this year, a court heard.

Amanda Rutland, aged 36, of Bates Lane, West Turville, Aylesbury, appeared before Bolton Magistrates accused of a public order offence and assaulting a police officer.

The hearing was told that Rutland, who denies the charges, kicked out at a police officer and his dog on March 20 while officers were trying to disperse the crowds gathered in Le Mans crescent.

Rutland was described as behaving aggressively towards the officer.

She was bit by the dog, but it was told to release her as she was being sucked into the crowd. Before she could be arrested she had disappeared amongst the demonstrators.

Her defence counsel argued that the dog bit her for no reason and that Rutland had done nothing wrong.

But Rutland was later spotted at Breightmet Street where police officers told the court she became aggressive and resisted arrest.

The trial continues.