An Isle of Wight man denies he used a knife to make threats in Newport but admits possessing a blade in public, which he was 'borrowing from a chef' to use ‘for his nails’.

Austin Collinstone, of West Street, Newport, pleaded guilty to possessing a bladed article in a public place at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, October 3.

Lauren Stone, prosecuting, said police were called after two men were seen having a disagreement on Pyle Street when one of them pulled out a knife and started making threats.

Ms Stone told the court officers found Collinstone and another man sitting on a bench on Furrlongs, with the 49-year-old admitting to police he had a kitchen knife but stating he uses the three-to-four-inch blade for his nails.

The prosecution said Collinstone, who has nine previous convictions for 12 offences, proceeded to answer ‘no comment’ in a police interview.

Oscar Vincent, defending, said his client admits having the knife in his pocket but denies being the person with a ‘six-inch knife’ making threats on Pyle Street.

Mr Vincent said the knife Collinstone had belonged to his friend, a chef, and he intended to return it to them.

Magistrates requested a pre-sentence report ahead of sentencing on November 10.