A NORTHWICH man has avoided an immediate spell behind bars after he was found with a kitchen knife in public.

Nick Rodrigues, of Royal Street, was found in possession of the bladed article on the street where he lives by police on July 24.

The 43-year-old appeared at Chester Magistrates Court on Tuesday, August 9, where he pleaded guilty to having the knife in a public place.

Rodrigues was given a six-month prison sentence, but magistrates decided to suspend that for a period of 12 months due to his previous lack of convictions.

He was told that possessing a knife in public would cause fear to members of the public, as they reasoned for justifying a custodial sentence.

However, they also added that they believed his lack of previous convictions meant there was also a likely prospect of him being successfully rehabilitated.

During the 12 months of that suspended sentence order, Rodrigues will have to complete 120 hours of unpaid work.

He will also have to pay £85 in prosecution costs and a surcharge of £154 which will help fund victim services.