AN ex-convict who confronted an off-duty policeman and his pals armed with a metal bar has kept his freedom.

Aaron Parker, 32, produced the "fearsome weapon" after a remark by a member of the group when he was stopped by police in his car in Blackburn.

Sentencing, Recorder Michael Blakey said the defendant's response had been "over the top." He added: "People using weapons in the town centre cannot be tolerated."

The judge said Parker, who was the subject of a community rehabilitation order, seemed to be responding well and wanted to encourage him.

Parker, of Haslingden Road, Blackburn, was given a 12-month community rehabilitation order and told to pay £100 costs after he admitted affray last September.

Louise Whaites, prosecuting, told the court as the defendant walked back to his car after being stopped, one of the off-duty officer's friends shouted: "They have nothing better to do."

Parker responded by saying he would take them all, returned to his car and produced a 25-inch metal bar. He then threatened two of them, swinging the bar and just missing several times.

Miss Whaites said the officer ran for help and while he was away the defendant dropped the bar. Parker was arrested.

Ex-convict Parker had previous convictions for burglary, affray, attempted wounding with intent and witness intimidation.

John Woodward, defending, said Parker was remorseful.

He had found himself in a very difficult position that day and accepted his actions were inappropriate. Since the offence, the defendant had been made subject of a community rehabilitation order and seemed to have been doing well. He had shown much willingness to change his approach, recognised he had problems controlling his anger and had complied with anything asked of him.

The barrister added Parker had found the relationship he had been looking for in his girlfriend.

He was in work and was very happy with his current domestic situation and working environment.