Caught green-handed!

Gardener held for 12 hours after arrest by armed police

- By Chris Riches

A GARDENER walking home from an allotment with his tools was arrested by armed police who shouted: “Drop the knife!”

Samuel Rowe, 35, was reportedly carrying a’ digging tool, a peeling knife and a sickle when the officers challenged him.

He claimed he was given no choice but to accept a caution — as police were unable to source him a solicitor.

The theatre manager said he was held for 12 hours, before being told he had to accept the reprimand without representation or face longer in custody.

Police said Mr Rowe had admitted possessing a “dagger” and was given a conditional caution, which entailed advice about the law on the carrying of bladed weapons in public.

The keen gardener said he was terrified when the armed officers, who did not draw their weapons, arrived outside his home in Chorlton, Manchester.