The topsy-turvy world we live in

The overnight talkback lines have been running hot over this one from Inglewood.

Paul Espiner grabbed a machete and confronted intruders who were threatening to kill a woman with a baseball bat one day last October.

For his bravery, he was charged by police and yesterday in the New Plymouth District Court was convicted – and discharged – of possessing an offensive weapon.

The intruder had been dealt with earlier, and was given a diversion, meaning he had to write a letter of apology, avoided a criminal conviction and had his name suppressed.

Fortunately Mr Espiner says he would do the same again.