A MAN who brandished a samurai sword at his aunt's ex-husband following a domestic dispute has avoided jail.

Sean Merkel, of Bargoed, pleaded guilty to possession of a knife and threatening with a blade in public, but was handed a community punishment for his actions.

The incident unfolded on June 6 last year when the 21-year-old was with friend Simon Jones in the Lansbury Park area of Caerphilly.

Newport Crown Court heard Merkel's aunt Tina Davies had called him in the early hours of the morning requesting he come to her aid at her nearby Maxton Court home, following an argument with ex David Thomas.

Joanna James, prosecuting, said CCTV footage showed the defendant and his friend arrive, leave and then return.

She explained: "On that second occasion a scuffle broke out. Mr Thomas was seen to be waving his walking stick towards them. The defendant then produced a samurai sword from his sleeve.

"At this stage, the defendant's aunt intervened."

Merkel and Mr Jones left the scene and the defendant was later arrested at his friend's home after Mr Thomas called police, and the ornamental sword - which measured a foot in length - was seized.

Merkel told police his aunt claimed Mr Thomas had assaulted her before his arrival and he then witnessed another attack, in which he was also pushed.

Mrs James added: "He admitted returning with the ornamental sword and said he felt threatened but never intended to use it.

"He said he only waved the sword towards Mr Thomas because he felt threatened by his use of a walking stick."

Marian Lewis, mitigating, said her client had a history of drug, alcohol and mental health issues but was "doing his level best to live a normal life".

She added: "He has no contact with his aunt anymore and now has an address in Bargoed so has not returned to Caerphilly since."

Sentencing him to an 18-month community order including courses to deal with behavioural and addiction problems, Judge Michael Burr said: "Although you were extremely foolish to go into your friend's house and take a weapon with you, I accept it was not done to injure anybody."

Merkel must also pay a £60 victim surcharge.