A CARMARTHENSHIRE man thanked a judge after he was given a trial date after pleading not guilty to having a knife in public.

Kevin Davies, 37, of Derwen Road in Tumble, is accused of having a ‘lock knife’ in Llanelli on May 20.

Appearing at Swansea Crown Court, Davies denied the offence of having an article with a blade or point in a public place.

He claimed, defence counsel Ashanti-Jade Walton said, that “he was using the knife earlier in the day” to help a friend by working on his smallholding.

Judge Paul Thomas set a trial date of October 18.

Davies was granted bail, on the condition of residence at his given address and not being found drunk or consuming alcohol in a public place.

As he left the dock, Davies twice asked for clarification over when the trial would be.

The first time, Judge Thomas confirmed it was October 18, but on the second he said: “I’m sure you will be sent a letter, Mr Davies”.

“Okay, cheers boyo,” the defendant replied.