AN UPHOLSTERER was convicted of possession of a knife — when he attended court and had his work knife in his pocket.

Joshua Leo Michael Light, 27, of Gurnard Pines, admitted possession of a knife in a public place on September 28, 2018, when he appeared in front of Island magistrates today.

Ann Smout, prosecuting, said everybody who attends court is searched, and he voluntarily produced the knife from his pocket to show the security guards.

It was a lock knife, and it is illegal to carry one in a public place.

The police were called, and Light was given a conditional caution, and ordered to pay £50. The matter only came before the court because the £50 was never paid.

Barry Arnett, for Light, said it was an unusual case as Light's partner had paid the £50, but paid too late, so the money was refunded back into her account. He showed documents to prove this was the case.

Mr Arnett said he understood that guidelines for knife crime had been tightened recently, but that Light was a hard-working young man and had been working that day, which is why he had the knife on him.

Court clerk Lucy Gullen confirmed there had been no suggestion any threats or gestures had been made with the knife.

Light said in a statement: " I am remorseful of my actions and I accept that my carelessness led to the charge."

He was ordered to pay a £200 fine, £85 costs and a £30 surcharge.