A KIDDERMINSTER man who has been cleared of a public order offence said he is glad the truth has finally come out.

Darrell Meekcom, aged 55, appeared at Redditch Magistrates Court for trial on Tuesday, August 2, accused of obstructing a constable in the execution of their duty.

He was found not guilty of resisting arrest and his defence of self-protection was accepted by the court.

Mr Meekcom, who has multiple system atrophy (MSA), was originally arrested on suspicion of indecent exposure and dangerous driving after mooning a speed camera last November as part of his bucket list.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Darrell and his wife Sarah.Darrell and his wife Sarah.

The dad of two was then detained in his back garden by several officers.

On August 2, chair of the bench Justice Charles Townsend said: “We feel the police acted quite lawfully on Friday, November 5 by arresting you.

“However, given the serious health conditions you are faced with, clenching your hands in the way that you did was justified, given the potential consequences of your hands being placed behind your back.”

'Glad its over'

After the trial, Mr Meekcom said he was feeling “fabulous but very tired”.

“I am very glad the truth came out; I had no reason to lie,” said Mr Meekcom.

“I hope the police consider how they arrest police.

“They were brutal and need to tone it down a bit.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Darrell Meekcom. Darrell Meekcom.

“We are people, not animals to be herded.”

He added: “All they needed to do was drop a note through the door asking me to come to Kidderminster Police Station to discuss what happened.

“It was utterly ridiculous, and I am so glad it’s over.”

West Mercia Police confirmed a complaint had been received and would now be referred to their professional standards department.

A force spokesperson said: "We respect the decision of the magistrate in this case.

"We can also confirm that we have received a complaint in relation to this case, and now court proceedings have concluded, this will be reviewed by our professional standards department.”

Bucket list

Mr Meekcom is making his way through his bucket list which includes game fishing in Madeira, a Mediterranean cruise, and to take his two daughters to an Ed Sheeran concert.

He added: “I also want to drive from John O’Groats to Lands’ End in a vintage rally car - and drive around the Silverstone track in a vintage Jaguar.

“I am an old-fashioned petrol-head.”

With the help from Wyre Forest charity, Kemp Hospice, another of Mr Meekcom’s bucket list wishes is being ticked off – a stair lift and bath hoist in his home.

“The stairs for me feel like Mount Everest so I cannot wait for the lift,” said Mr Meekcom.

“Kemp Hospice has helped me so much; I go to the hospice every week and the staff are amazing.

“I cannot thank them enough.”