A man sent “disgraceful” phone message threats to his ex-partner before being found in his car with two imitation guns and other weapons including a zombie knife.

Gary Carter went to a home in Bury on December 13 last year and had a “normal conversation” with his former partner, who was with friends, Manchester Minshull Crown Court heard.

He said he would “return in an hour to pick her up”, the court was told.

But prosecutor Neil Bisarya said the 47-year-old’s messages became aggressive and he sent threats of violence towards her and a man, who was at the property, and he tried to call her.

Police were called and Carter was found in his car when he was arrested at around 10.45pm.

A rucksack was discovered in the back seat containing two imitation firearms, an axe, a zombie knife, two other knives and cocaine, the court was told.

A hockey mask, which the defendant claimed was used to sneak up on animals while camping, was also found.

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Carter, of Calder Walk, Whitefield, pleaded guilty to possession of the weapons in a public place, possession of cocaine and sending malicious communications.

The court was told he had four previous convictions, including for possession of an offensive weapon, cultivating cannabis and production of the Class B drug.

Defending, Megan Edwards said Carter suffered a traumatic past, including the death of a relative two years ago and has a spinal injury after a crash some years ago.

He also has mental health problems and had not had medication for 48 hours in the lead up to the offences in December.

Ms Edwards pointed out that there was a good chance he could be rehabilitated and mentioned positive character references that were put forward.

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Addressing Carter, who was said to be remorseful, Judge Jason MacAdam said: “The communications you sent are disgraceful, they are extreme threats.”

But Judge MacAdam accepted that the weapons were not brandished and also said it would be in the best interest for Carter to be rehabilitated in the community rather than be sent to prison.

He was given a two-year sentence suspended for two years and was ordered to follow a six-month curfew and to complete 10 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

Judge MacAdam warned Carter that he would be back before the courts if he breaches his sentence, telling him that the conditions include taking drugs.