A HEART patient was locked up 18 hours in a police cell for allegedly dropping an apple core

Core blimey ... Keith

A HEART patient was locked up 18 hours in a police cell for allegedly dropping an apple core.

Keith Hurst, 54, was challenged by a police community support officer as he went to the chemist for his wife.

He denied littering and refused to pay a �50 on-the-spot fine — but when he exited the pharmacy, carer Keith was nicked by FIVE cops.

He was fingerprinted at a police station and went before JPs in Salford, Greater Manchester, accused of littering and obstructing an officer.

Prosecutors dropped the obstruction charge — but he still faces going on trial for littering.

Keith, who has had heart surgery, claims he suffered dizziness in custody and had to see a doctor. He fumed: "You’d think I’d robbed a bank."

A police spokesman said: "Officers are expected to challenge anyone seen littering."