POLICE responded to reports of a man on a Blackburn street slashing his arms with a razor blade.

Blackburn magistrates heard officers had to handcuff Callum Southworth to ensure he didn't cause himself further harm as they searched for the blade.

Southworth, 20, of Pendle Drive, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour. He was made subject to a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £22 victim surcharge.

Katie Lord, prosecuting, said police were called to Weir Street at 12.15 am. where Southworth had been self-harming.

"He told officers he had a razor blade and was handcuffed but then said he had thrown it away," said Miss Lord. "He was aggressive and threatening and appeared to be under the influence of something although he didn't smell of alcohol."

Southworth, who was not represented, said he had been released from a section under the mental health act just two days before the incident.

"I was under the influence of a drug and alcohol," he said.

"I am now under the community mental health team and I am working with Inspire."