A MAN who had a pocket knife concealed in a sock has been handed a suspended prison sentence.

Darren Staford, 32, pleaded guilty to possessing a knife blade or sharp pointed article in a public place, when he appeared at Workington Magistrates’ Court.

The offence took place on Chapel Street in Egremont on February 26.

Staford, of Orchard Place, Cleator Moor, also admitted failing to surrender to court bail in Workington on March 14.

Magistrates felt the offence was so serious that only a custodial sentence could be justified due to the defendant having a bladed article concealed in a sock while in a public place.

Staford was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for 12 months, due to the realsistic prospect of rehabilitation.

He must complete a non-residential drug rehabilitation programme under the direction of Workington Recovery Steps and 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

Staford must also pay £85 costs and a £154 victim surcharge.