A MAN who went on trial accused of flashing a knife in Poundland has been convicted.

Matthew Smith looked devastated as a jury returned its verdict at Oxford Crown Court today.

The 26-year-old of Roman Way, Bicester, had denied one count of having a bladed article.

After deliberating for three hours and 22 minutes he was found guilty at the end of his trial.

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During the case prosecutors said that the incident took place at Bicester's Poundland store on Sheep Street in the town centre.

Prosecutor Samuel Trefgarne said that that at about 11.30am on November 10 2018 Stacey White was inside the store together with her partner.

By coincidence, Mr Trefgarne said, Smith - who is the woman's ex-partner - was also there.

He said that soon after Smith called to the woman to speak with her and she refused.

It was not until the woman's new partner stepped up to Smith, prosecutors said, that the crime took place.

Smith told the man he would 'slash his face' before placing his hand in his pockets and pulling out a knife, which was described as a 'small, red Stanley type knife.'

Smith then held the blade very briefly below his waist before leaving the store shortly after.

After the guilty verdicts had been entered presiding Judge Nigel Daly thanked the jury for their attention to the case.

He agreed a request by the defence to adjourn sentencing while a pre-sentence report is completed.

That report by the National Probation Service will explore all sentencing options.

Smith was released on bail to await his sentencing which will take place at the same court on April 9.