RECYCLING workers were shocked when David Tucker became angry with them and produced an axe as they were emptying his bin, a court heard.

Tucker, aged 43, of Bramble Lane, Stonehouse, initially seemed pleasant to the two recycling collectors on February 13 this year, but then became agitated about a box of his which they had moved.

Brendan Moorhouse, prosecuting, at Gloucester Crown Court on Friday, explained that he began
swearing at them.

“He was asking where the box was,” said Mr Moorhouse. “They said they had placed it in a bin and he became increasingly angry.

“He produced a kindling axe about one foot long. He shouted at them. They said he shook it towards them in a jabbing motion, although not very close to them.”

Tucker, who has numerous previous convictions, admitted a charge of affray.

Probation officer Patrick Tracey said a period of supervision was recommended – something Tucker was keen to undertake.

The court heard that the probation officer who had supervised Tucker on a two-year order which finished recently was willing to continue working with him.

A nine-month community order with supervision was imposed plus a two-month 8pm to 6am curfew.