Matthew Duncan awaits sentence for his role in a stabbing in Evesham

Matthew Duncan, of Shepherds Rise, Droitwich, appeared at Worcester Crown Court on Tuesday, (September 13), expecting to be sentenced, having previously pleaded guilty to affray and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. 

But at the start of the hearing prosecutor Charles Church said he was asking for an adjournment for the unusual reason of the prosecution not knowing what weapon was used in the affray.

SCENE: The stabbing took place in Evesham High Street in August (Image: From public)

Mr Church said Duncan had denied possession of a bladed article in a public place - a charge later dropped - but the 24-year-old had pleaded guilty to possession of the offensive weapon described as a multi-tool. 

The prosecutor explained the only reference he could see to a multi-tool had been made in the charge so enquiries needed to be made on the "evidential basis for it".

The prosecutor added the matter was important as it would be Duncan's second possession of an offensive weapon which would mean he was facing jail. 

Belinda Ariss, defending, said the item was a "nail file with different files on it", which was different to a multi-tool. 

"It was never seized by police," Mrs Aris said.

"It is still in his possession."

Mrs Ariss added a picture of the item could be taken and sent to the prosecution, who could then confirm it was the item used with the police.

READ MORE: Two men charged in connection with Evesham high street stabbing

READ MORE: Pub-goers locked in as stabbing happens right outside​

Mrs Aris added she would be trying to persuade a judge to give her client a suspended jail sentence, when his sentencing went ahead. 

Judge Nicholas Cole spoke of his surprise the issue of the weapon had not been dealt with at the magistrates court, where he expected it would have been resolved.

Judge Cole said he was adjourning the sentence until September 27, for the prosecution to make enquires and the defence to provide the photograph. 

He added that Duncan's conditional bail would continue, which includes an electronically monitored curfew at his home address. 

COURT: Matthew Duncan appeared at Worcester Crown Court

We previously reported that a 17-year-old boy was stabbed at around 10.40pm on August 6 at the junction of High Street and Swan Lane, Evesham. 

The victim was given medical assistance by armed police officers before being taken to hospital on blue lights by the ambulance service.

Co-accused Andrew Nicklin, 22, of Mill Street in Evesham, was charged with affray, possession of a bladed article in a public place and of wounding with intent.