A woman has admitted her role in an incident during which five police officers were doused in petrol.

Basildon Magistrates' Court was told that events unfolded in the Essex townafter officers followed a stolen motorbike from a vigil in Canvey Island on May 5.

Sam Doyle, prosecuting, said that, as officers attempted to arrest the youthwho was riding the motorbike, a woman armed herself with a hammer and a man doused officers with petrol.

Janine Justin, 47, of Ward Close, Basildon, pleaded guilty to possessing anoffensive weapon in a public place.

Ms Doyle said Justin had the hammer "above her shoulder and she's swearing at the officers"

Stuart Dingle, for Justin, said her guilty plea was "on the basis that shedidn't threaten anyone with that weapon".

Justin was bailed to appear at Basildon Crown Court for sentence next month.

Justin Jackson, 28, of Ward Close, Basildon, was arrested and charged withseven counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Basildon CrownCourt for a plea hearing next week.

A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be identified due to his age, was arrested and charged with offences including dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle and two counts of handling stolen goods.

He was remanded into youth detention at an earlier hearing and pleas have yet to be taken.

Essex Police said five officers were doused in petrol during the incident andtwo were taken to hospital because the fuel went in their eyes and mouth.