A MAN has been ordered to complete work in the community after he was found in possession of an offensive weapon in a Powys town.

Mark James was found carrying a friction-lock baton – often used by police or security officers – in Brecon on August 1. Under the Criminal Justice Act 1988 it is an offence to sell, offer for sale or hire any telescopic truncheons activated by a spring-loaded button.

James, 39, was found to be in possession of the baton at his home in Bell Lane, Brecon, by police. He admitted possessing an offensive weapon when he appeared at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates' Court on Thursday, August 18.

Magistrates ordered James to carry out 40 hours of unpaid work as part of a 12-month community order.

He must also pay a £114 surcharge and £85 costs. Magistrates also ordered the friction-lock baton to be forfeited and destroyed.