Pennine magistrates heard how Naem Rafiq (19) abused the officers. When they searched the vehicle they found the knife. The defendant said he was on the way to a job interview - he was now head chef at Mortimers.

Rafiq, of School Street, Nelson, admitted using words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress and possessing a knife. He was fined £225, with £60 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

The bench told the defendant the offence was serious and carrying in knife in some circumstances could lead to custody because at the moment there was real fear from people carrying knives.

The chairman added they believed his behaviour had been foolish and reckless and he had not intended any harm. She went on: "Had it been in a box as it should have been there would have been no problem." The knife was confiscated.

Alex Mann (prosecuting) said Rafiq was stopped as he was not wearing a seat belt, was abusive and told officers they could not do anything.

The defendant told police he took the knife out of work as he was cooking for friends and wanted to use his best knife to show off his skills. He had no previous convictions.