A MAN has narrowly avoided a prison sentence for carrying in a knife in public.

Kairon James Morgan, 25, of Hinckler Road, Thornhill, admitted possessing a crescent-bladed knife in Festival Place in Basingstoke on June 24.

Magistrates in Basingstoke jailed him for four months but suspended the sentence for two years.

The magistrates said it would unjust to impose the minimum sentence of six months and there were mitigating circumstances such as Morgan caring for his mother and 'disturbing personal mitigation', the details of which were not given.

Morgan must also observe a night-time curfew to be at home between 7pm-7am until September 9. It will be electronically monitored.

There was also a community order with a rehabilitation activity requirement for up to 20 days.

He was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £115 and £85 costs. The knife was confiscated and will be destroyed.