A 25-YEAR-OLD man who had an axe in his possession in public has been given a suspended jail term.

Police made an arrest after reports a man allegedly approached a van driver at around 4.30am on Tuesday, July 7 while carrying an axe.

Zach Pye, of Bassenthwaite Avenue, Moss Bank, was charged with possession of an offensive weapon.

There were no reports of any injuries from the incident.

Pye pleaded guilty at Merseyside Magistrates' Court to having an axe with him on Thirlmere Avenue.

The 25-year-old was given an 18-week jail sentence, suspended for 18 months.

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A court sheet says the sentence was passed because the offence was considered "so serious".

The defendant's guilty plea was taken into account upon sentencing.

Pye must undertake treatment for alcohol dependency and he must also undertake up to 40 days' rehabilitation activity.

Pye was ordered to pay a £128 victim surcharge and £85 in costs to the Crown Prosecution Service, making a total of £213.