A MAN caught with a huge kitchen knife in Colchester town centre has avoided jail.

Shoppers were left horrified when they saw police officers arresting Mark Charounprasit in Priory Walk, shortly before 1pm on Saturday.

Officers were forced to restrain the 41-year-old by his legs and confiscate a large knife which he had been carrying.

After being arrested, Charounprasit caused damage to the police car which was taking him to the police station.

He admitted possession of a knife and criminal damage when he appeared at Colchester Magistrates' Court.

Charounprasit was handed a six month prison sentence suspended for a year.

He must pay £45 compensation to Essex Police as compensation for the damage to the car and a £115 victim surcharge.

The knife will be destroyed.