A KNIFE-CARRIER, who claimed he did not intend to use the weapon, is facing a prison sentence after a man suffered hand injuries caused by the blade.

The warning was given by a judge at Durham Crown Court after Damon Davison admitted two charges arising from the incident in Chester-le-Street, on Christmas Eve.

Appearing via video link to the court from Holme House Prison, in Stockton, 30-year-old Davison admitted charges of possessing an offensive weapon, namely the knife, in public, in Second Avenue, and unlawful wounding, both on December 24.

His barrister, Lorraine Mustard, told the court: “He took the knife with him, intending to scare, but never intending to use it.

“But, the complainant in this case thought he was going to be injured and so made a grab for the knife, which is how the injuries were caused.”

Shaun Dryden, prosecuting, said: “That accords with the statement of the injured party.

“Effectively, he feared he was going to be stabbed by the defendant who brought it.”

Judge Christopher Prince adjourned sentence pending preparation of a background report on the defendant.

He also asked for an updated medical report on the condition of the victim, who the court was told has had a recent return visit to hospital to assess the damage to his hands.

Judge Prince warned Davison, of Front Street, Chester Moor, near Chester-le-Street, to expect to receive a prison sentence.

He remanded Davison back to custody, pending the sentencing hearing, on February 6.