TWO friends have been spared jail after drawing knives on each other in a street fight.

Bolton Crown Court heard how Ryan Crook and Paul Dixon had been drinking at a house in Thurstane Street, Halliwell, in the early hours of April 25 when they got involved in an argument.

Elizabeth Evans, prosecuting, said the row spilled out into the street and the pair were spotted by an off-duty policeman.

Each was armed with a knife and two women were screaming and trying to separate them.

‘Both were shouting to the other “come on then!”’ said Miss Evans.

The men kept trying to run at each other and the women finally defused the situation.

Crook, aged 20, of Priory Place, Tonge Moor and Dixon, aged 19, of Bleak Street, Bolton were arrested and subsequently both pleaded guilty to possessing a knife.

Nicholas Ross, defending Crook, said he is “embarrassed and profoundly remorseful.”

He added: “He did not go armed in advance. Sadly this is an argument between two friends that spilled over.

“It was more an act of bravado than any real intention.”

Robert Dudley, for Dixon, said the plasterer and his pal’s fight had not had to be ended by police and no one was injured.

Recorder Peter Birkett QC, sentenced Crook and Dixon each to four months in a young offenders’ institution, suspended for 12 months and told them they must each pay £150 prosecution costs.

He said: “The two of you, in drink, were out in the street at night, with knives.

“It’s a terrifying picture that makes to the public.

“Each of you are on the threshold of adult life.

“You have a choice in the direction you want your lives to go. I think there is promise so long as you control yourselves.”