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A Wigan man has admitted to a series of motoring and drug offences but denied shining a laser at Greater Manchester's police helicopter.

Graham Liptrot, 39, of Knowsley Avenue, Golborne, appeared before borough justices to plead guilty to driving a Renault Scenic on Woodcock Drive, Platt Bridge, last December 29 when disqualified from the road and having no insurance.

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He also confessed to being in possession of cannabis on November 15 2023 and to breaching bail conditions on June 16 this year.

Greater Manchester Police's helicopter in flight

But he has pleaded not guilty to shining a laser at a National Police Air Service helicopter in flight on November 15 and that the beam dazzled or distracted Captain Peter Delaney who was flying the aircraft.

Liptrot was released on bail - conditions being that he stay overnight at his home address and observe a night-time curfew - until he next appears before a Bolton Crown Court judge on July 12 for sentencing for the offences to which he has pleaded guilty.

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A trial on the laser charge has been scheduled to take place on April 8 2025.