SA man admits trying to burn policeman

A 62-year-old man has admitted endangering the life of a police officer by dousing him in petrol, then trying to strike a lighter.

Kieran David Cregan pleaded guilty in the South Australian District Court on Tuesday to an aggravated count of endangering life at Camden Park in Adelaide on his birthday on April 4 last year.

Cregan, who wears a patch on one eye and walks with difficulty, was allowed continuing bail until his sentencing hearing on September 11.

Judge Geraldine Davison told Cregan's lawyer, Robert Kane, that victim impact statements were likely to be presented to the court.

"There were a number of police officers who were present and understandably distressed by the conduct of your client and other matters that occurred," she said.

"It would seem your client was extremely intoxicated and did not cover himself in glory at the Royal Adelaide Hospital."

Mr Kane said he would obtain a psychological report on his client, who has other significant medical appointments coming up including seeing a cardiologist.