A MAN accused of carrying a knife on Essex University's campus has denied the charge.

Oluwamayowa Akinnawonu, 21, is accused of carrying a tactical combat knife in Colchester on May 2.

He appeared before magistrates in Chelmsford later that month and admitted one charge of possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

Akinnawonu, of Leamington Road, Southend, was bailed on the condition he did not enter Colchester unless he was travelling to a court.

He was due to be sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court on Friday.

But the court heard Akinnawonu, who arrived in court with his family and stood in the dock wearing a shirt and tie, intended to change his plea and deny the charge.

Recorder Sarah Przybylska was told a date for Akinnawonu’s next hearing could not be set until Friday, January 10.

Akinnawonu’s bail conditions will remain in place.