TWO thugs became involved in a 'violent' street fight while armed with an axe and hammer.

In what was described as an ‘ugly scene’, Darren Bettany and Simon Johansen fought with a group of youths.

Bettany, of Bawtry Court, Padgate, and Johansen, of Compass Close, Runcorn, appeared before Chester Crown Court for sentencing last Thursday after both pleading guilty to affray and possessing an offensive weapon.

Johansen also pleaded guilty to further charges including possession with intent to supply cannabis, possessing cannabis and driving a motor vehicle without a valid licence or insurance.

Prosecuting, Paulinus Barnes said the offences happened on Bridge Street in Runcorn in April 2021.

Mr Barnes said that three youths went to an address where Bettany was and were seeking a fight with him.

This led to an argument outside of the property which Johansen, 31, overheard and came outside of his own address to join in, armed with an axe.

CCTV footage showed a fight between the group of youths and two defendants near the main road – while Bettany, 20, was also armed with a hammer.

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Mr Barnes said how ‘aggressive back and forth’ took place until the police arrived.

In a separate offence in March 2022, Johansen was spotted driving an electric scooter by police in Runcorn when they noticed a strong smell of cannabis.

They searched him and found him to be in possession of the class B drug before searching his home address and finding more cannabis.

The court heard how officers found 115.8g of cannabis with a street value of £1,340.

Mr Barnes said that Bettany has no previous convictions while Johansen has 14 convictions for 20 offences.

Defending Johansen, William Staunton said his client had been at home when he heard banging on a nearby door.

“He rose to that and went out armed with an axe,” said Mr Staunton.

“He has had time to reflect on his position and understands that his behaviour has been in many ways in juvenile.

“He got involved in the incident for no real reason at all.

“It is appalling and he should be ashamed of himself.”

Defending Bettany, Julian Farley said that his client was only 18 at the time and had no convictions before nor since the offence.

Mr Farley added: “He has recently gained employment which gets him out of the house.”

Addressing Johansen, Judge Simon Berkson said: “The drug offences are so serious because they were carried out while you were on licence.

“The other incident was an awful incident of violence in the middle of Runcorn in a public street.

“It was a serious offence of violence.”

Johansen was handed a 27-month prison sentence.

Addressing Bettany, Judge Berkson said: “This is the first offence you have been involved in.

“It was an ugly scene.

“But I am prepared to give you a chance.”

Bettany received an eight-month prison sentence suspended for two years.

He must also complete up to 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days and complete up to 200 hours of unpaid work.