A TENANT living in supported housing had a five-inch blade when he opened the door to a member of staff, telling him to 'keep away'.

Paul Milburn, 62, had put a dab of glue into the lock of the door at The Richmond Fellowship building on Duke Street in Workington on December 7.

Staff were unable to get into the property and CCTV footage showed that Milburn had caused the damage, Workington Magistrates’ Court was told.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said a member of staff from The Richmond Fellowship had gone to do some checks and heard some noise coming from the property.

He went to do a welfare check at the defendant’s flat. Milburn had opened the door with a five inch blade, saying 'keep away from me' and swore at him.

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The staff member then contacted police. He said Milburn was 'unpredictable' and was scared that the defendant 'may come after him'.

During police interview, Milburn gave ‘no comment’ to most of the questions asked. When asked if someone had come to his door, Milburn had replied, 'obviously'.

Milburn, of Fountains Avenue, Workington, pleaded guilty to common assault and criminal damage under £5,000.

The defendant, who was not legally represented, did not have anything to say about the offences.

He was given a 12-month community order with 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

Milburn was fined £120 and must pay £85 costs and a £114 victim surcharge. He was also ordered to pay £45 in compensation to The Richmond Fellowship.