A PARTYGOER who produced a slaughterman's knife when confronted by an "aggressive" bouncer has been spared a jail sentence.

A judge told Adam Bell, 23, that prison was the norm for what he had done, but because of the doorman's manner and the fact Bell had not gone out deliberately armed with the knife, custody was not necessary.

Assistant Recorder RJ Pratt gave Bell 12 months probation, to include treatment for alcohol use.

Bell, of Rowland Avenue, Nelson, admitted possessing an offensive weapon, affray and failing to surrender.

Norman Lawson, prosecuting, told Burnley Crown Court the doorman was on duty in January at an 18th birthday party at the Great Marsden Hotel, Nelson.

Bell was there and had been asked to leave after an altercation. Bell left and the bouncer saw a pint of beer being taken out to him. It was policy not to let glasses go outside.

The doorman approached Bell and spoke to him and the defendant produced the knife, said to have a six inch blade, and brandished it.

The bouncer used to be a slaughterman and described the weapon as a slaughterman's knife. Bell told police he had found the knife on the floor.

Anthony Cross, defending, said the initial altercation was not of Bell's making. He had picked up a knife and kept it with him for a short period of time.

Perhaps it would have been wise to leave the scene.

He said the bouncer was clearly acting in an aggressive manner and rather than leave, the defendant produced the knife and committed the offence.

Mr Cross went on: "The knife was not used. Had it not been for the actions of others, this man would not be in the position he is in today."

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