POLICE searching for a missing man found him covered in dried blood with a large knife and razor blade.

Burnley’s magistrates were told how Paul Bladen, 28, was interviewed and said he had the blades in order to self-harm.

Bladen’s solicitor told the court he has “entrenched mental health problems” and sees the mental health team every week.

Bladen, of Colne Road, Burnley, admitted possessing a knife blade/sharp pointed article in a public place on July 27.

He was sentenced to a 12-month supervision order with an £85 fine, £80 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said the police found the defendant, who had previously circulated as missing, at 4.40pm.

He confirmed who he was and accepted he was wrong to be carrying the blades. He has 13 offences on his record.

Sarah Lyall, defending, said he had been having a depressive episode and had self-harmed on a regular basis.

Miss Lyall added: “He is clearly from a close-knit family who are very concerned for him.”