A FLINT man foolishly brandished a knife at a "mob" of youths who were pelting him with rocks and missiles in a shop doorway, a court heard.

Nathan Hughes, of Chapel Street, appeared at Mold Crown Court for sentence on Thursday.

The 22-year-old had previously admitted one offence of possessing a bladed article in public.

Richard Edwards, prosecuting, told the court that on May 1 this year, police were called to a disturbance at a convenience store in Flint High Street.

A witness told police a group of youths had gathered outside the shop and were pointing, shouting and throwing various objects at the defendant, who was in the doorway - and holding a knife.

Hughes was heard shouting words to the effect of: "Carry on and I'll stab you."

When the youths finally dispersed, Hughes was persuaded to drop the knife.

The court heard the whole incident was captured on CCTV - showing the defendant having rocks, road barriers and even bicycles thrown at him.

Paulinus Barnes, defending, told the court his client had previously been beaten up by the same group - and he had been stabbed after the incident in question.

"It's a very unfortunate incident," he said.

"He's surrounded by a mob, and was terrified of going out.

"He foolishly took a knife with him for 'protection' as he was worried he would be attacked again.

"As it happened he was. Plastic barriers, a bike, the National Lottery sign were all thrown at him so he runs into the shop to get away.

"He has a very sad family background and very limited educational attainment.

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"In my submission this is a young man for whom life hasn't presented many opportunities."

Judge Nicola Saffman told the defendant: "The circumstances [of this situation] are dreadful and are not entirely of your making.

"You were in the door of the store in Flint High Street and were pursued by 19 youths who were threatening you.

"You foolishly took the knife out for your own protection and brandished it when they were all attacking you.

"I understand you would have been terrified in those circumstances, but what you did was illegal."

The Judge recognised that the circumstances in which the offence happened were "exceptional," and handed down a four month prison sentence - but suspended it for 12 months.

The defendant must undertake 25 rehabilitation activity days and pay a victim surcharge of £156.