A DAD-OF-TWO brought terror to the home of his ex-partner and her new man after turning up brandishing a blade.

Glenn O’Connell, 46, had lost control in the incident and although he ‘laid hands’ on the new partner, did not use the knife.

His children saw what happened, Burnley Crown Court heard.

O’Connell, who had turned to drink after the breakdown of his relationship, committed three offences of violence in 18 months, had previously been given a community order and had struck eight months after an offence of battery.

The defendant was told by a judge that fines and community orders did not seem to have deterred him.

Recorder John Benson, QC, said: “You are walking a very fine line.”

However, the judge, who said the incident must have been terrifying, added he had read testimonials which showed there was another side to O’Connell.

He said: “You are somebody, who for the most part, is a responsible, hard-working individual, who is a loving father and you are jeopardising all that by behaving in this manner.”

The defendant, of Lower Manor Lane, Burnley, had admitted affray and possessing an offensive weapon, last October 30.

He was given 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, with 12 months supervision.

Defending, Philip Holden said O’Connell showed remorse.

He had continued to see his children and there had been no more problems with the complainants.