A Maidstone man will have to surrender his samurai sword after pleading guilty to carrying it in a public place.

David Jones, of Threshers Drive, Weavering, admitting possessing the Japanese weapon at a Maidstone Magistrates’ Court hearing last week following an incident in the early hours of Saturday, May 2.

The court heard how the 46-year-old was spotted clutching the sheathed item by police who were responding to reports of an argument taking place near Hart Dyke Road in Swanley.

Jones refused to stop when asked by the officers and walked through Woodview Road and on to Crescent Gardens, where he was arrested.

The sword was recovered from a nearby driveway and Jones was charged later that day.

Magistrates handed him a 12-month conditional discharge, ordered him to pay £100 in court costs and a £180 criminal court charge.

A forfeiture order was also put in place, meaning the sword will now be confiscated.