A MAN who wielded two machetes outside a couple's home was spared jail.

Mark Hope, 31, held the two blades in front of Anthony Williams in Moorland Road, Ebbw Vale, Cardiff Crown Court heard.

Judge Paul Hopkins told Hope it must have been a "terrifying experience".

He was barred from contacting Mr Williams and his partner Tracey Crowe indefinitely.

Hope had a history of mental health problems and it is thought he had not taken his medication at the time of the incident, the court heard.

Judge Hopkins gave him a 12-month custodial sentence, suspended for two years, 100 hours unpaid work and a £100 surcharge.

The restraining order will stop Hope from contacting the couple or going to their home until such time another order is imposed.

Hope, of Cwm Terrace, Ebbw Vale, experienced difficulties coping with his past, the court heard.

Judge Hopkins told him: "It would appear you had not taken your prescribed medication at the time you committed these offences.

"I am minded to suspend that sentence of imprisonment.

"I'm giving you one last opportunity to try to address the problems that led to your behaviour.

"Use it - don't waste it. You will not be shown such leniency again in the future."

Hope pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing a bladed article and a further count of affray on August 5.

The court heard Mr Williams watched from his garden as Hope shouted at him armed with the two blades that were described as machetes or large swords.

He eventually left the scene and when he was arrested did not disclose the location of the weapons, the court heard.

Judge Hopkins imposed 12-month jail terms for each offence, to run concurrently.

He also ordered that Hope completes a thinking skill programme and be supervised for two years.

His barrister, Hywel Hughes, said his client was "very compliant" when he took his medication and would be prepared to be supervised and carry out the unpaid work.