A MORECAMBE teenager went out of control when he damaged several cars and, on a separate occasion, threatened a group of youths with a knife.

Preston Crown Court was told that Leslie Russell, 18, of Westminster Road, was released on bail in May after he scratched several cars, jumped on others and slashed tyres.

He caused more than £1,800 worth of damage and explained that he was drunk and angry over a family matter.

He appeared for sentence for a criminal damage, damaging a building society window and having an offensive weapon. He asked for 13 offences to be taken into consideration.

Mr Nicholas Simmonds, prosecuting, alleged that while on bail Russell then went up to a youth holding his friend's bike outside a shop on Albert Road and said: "I want that bike get off."

When the youth tried to get away, Russell produced a large knife and said: "Get off that bike I want it."

Russell took the bike and then returned a short time later and found the youths trying to phone the police. On seeing him, however, they ran off. Russell had been in custody since June 1st.

Miss Rachael Woods defending said that at the time the teenager had been drunk and angry following a family matter.

On sentencing Russell to 18 months probation, Judge Ivor Taylor said: "It is clear you have a lot of problems and it seems that you would welcome help."

Also at Preston Crown Court a Lancaster man has denied charges including one of attempted murder.

Gavin Brotheridge, 22, of Brennand Close, pleaded not guilty to attempting to murder Timothy Woodward on August 29 this year.

He also denied two other charges of arson in Brennand Close, intending to endanger the life of Timothy Woodward and arson, being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.

His case was adjourned to February 7 next year and the trial is expected to last about two days. Brotheridge was remanded in custody.

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