A MAN living under a tree has appeared in court for keeping a kitchen knife in his pocket as self-defence.

Antonio Zavettieri claims he did not realise it was against the law when he was arrested for having the three inch blade in his pocket because in his native country of Italy people are free to carry knives in public.

But the 50-year-old told a probation officer he would like to go to prison so he would have somewhere to sleep.

Zavettieri, who was joined in the dock by an interpreter, pleaded guilty to the offence which happened on June 23.

Keith Ballinger, prosecuting, said: “Police are called to Culvery Court. There was a male outside and was causing problems and he wasn’t welcome in his room because he was heavily intoxicated.

“When officers arrive he is still outside the front of the property. He was detained and searched and in his jacket pocket officers recover a small kitchen chopping knife. He admitted being in possession in the interview.

“He said he used it at home and didn’t realise he couldn’t carry it in a public place.”

The court also heard how Zavettieri was the victim of an assault, which he did not report to the police, and was using the knife for protection.

Defending, Andrew Watts-Jones told magistrates his client is a skilled labourer but cannot find work in the UK without a CSCS card to prove he has the appropriate training.

As a result he occasionally turns to alcohol but is keen to get back into work.

Mr Watts-Jones said: “He come to the UK four years ago with his wife. His marriage broke down shortly after.

“He has been working since he was 14 and he works hard. He’s worked here for most of the time he has been here. But work dried up a couple of months ago.

“As you’ve heard he was attacked. He said to police he had it to make sure if this chap arrived again he could frighten him. He never intended to use it.

“He lives under a tree. He tells me it is a very nice tree but he wants to live in a building. He simply wants to be able to work to support himself and the rest they say will be history.”

Bench chairman Nigel Spinney told Zavettieri: “We’ve considered this matter and we feel it is serious enough for us to make a community order. This order will last for six months.

“You will also have to do rehabilitation requirement days for ten days. We hope this part of the order will help you with your drinking and housing accommodation.

“We are also giving you 80 hours unpaid work.

“If you breach any of the requirements or commit another offence your sentence could be increased or you could be resentenced and this could involve you being sent to prison.”

Mr Spinney also ordered forfeiture of the knife and that Zavettieri pays a victim surcharge of £85, but no costs because of his circumstances.