A MAN from Horden has admitted a string of offences including possession of an axe.

Joshua Thain, of Tees Street, appeared via video link from HMP Durham at Durham Crown Court.

The 23-year-old pleaded guilty to making threats to kill, possessing an offensive weapon, affray and criminal damage.

Judge Christopher Prince heard the offences were committed on Saturday, July 14.

Thain admitted making threats to kill and having in his possession an axe on Morpeth Street.

The court heard the defendant had also caused damage to a Hyundai i10 belonging to a woman.

Chris Baker, for Thain, said: "The defendant, although still a very young man, has previous convictions for violence."

The court heard his client had alluded to having been diagnosed with mental health issues as a 17-year-old.

Mr Baker requested the sentencing be adjourned to allow for pre-sentence reports to be prepared.

The defendant will remain in custody until the sentencing hearing, scheduled to take place at the same court on Friday, November 9.