A 25-YEAR-OLD man found in possession of a knife has been fined £300 at Selkirk Sheriff Court.

Logan Todd pleaded guilty to the offence which happened in King Street, Galashiels, on May 22.

Prosecutor India McLean said police officers had cause to stop a vehicle at around 8.10pm and after a search found a knife on Todd’s person.

He was cautioned and charged and replied he had just finished work as a stonemason.

Defence lawyer Stephanie Clinkscale explained the knife was a Stanley blade which locks open.

She said her client had been working in Innerleithen as a stonemason between 8am and 5pm, and had gone home but did not change and when he went out later to collect someone in the car the knife was still in his pocket.

Ms Clinkscale admitted: “Forgetting it is on your person is not a reasonable excuse and he appreciates that now.”

Sheriff Peter Paterson said it was not an excuse but was a mitigating factor.

In addition to the fine, a £20 victim surcharge was imposed.