A MAN threatened to slit his neighbour in two during a dispute over loud music.

Blackburn magistrates heard when police eventually arrested Dale Douglas they discovered a machete in his property.

Douglas, 34, of Stanley Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to affray, possession of a machete and possession of a locking baton.

He was sentenced to 26 weeks in prison suspended for two years with a 7pm to 7am curfew for three months and 25 days rehabilitation activity requirement. He was ordered to pay £200 compensation, £85 costs and a £154 victim surcharge.

District Judge Alexandra Preston described the incident as "absolutely appalling."

"In a drunken state you reacted violently towards a neighbour who, perfectly reasonably, asked you to turn the loud music down," said District Judge Preston.

"You went out into the street brandishing a machete and shouting obscenities. It must have been very frightening for anyone who witnessed it."

Jane Rapin, prosecuting, said at around midnight Douglas was playing his music loudly and was out in the garden punching a punch bag.

"His neighbour asked him to keep it quiet and there was an exchange of words," said Miss Rapin.

"He said he would slit his neighbour in two, the noise continued and the police were called."

Gareth Price, defending, said his client had found himself drinking to excess following the death of his mother and his aunt.

"He has self referred to Inspire and has been making good progress," said Mr Price.

He has also made enquiries with his landlord about the possibility of him moving away from the victim in this case. It is 10 months since the incident and there have been no further problems."