An axeman went on a rampage through three communities, destroying cars.
James Hyet of Laws Close in Saffron Walden was spotted in Henlow, Clifton and Shefford wielding an axe and carrying knives on Sunday evening.
His case was heard at Luton Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Hyet, 33, pleaded guilty to multiple charges; two counts of criminal damage, using abusive and insulting words, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and obstruction of a police officer in his course of duty.
He was arrested outside the Tesco Express and Esso petrol station in Elm Road, Shefford.
A spokesman for the police said: “He was sitting outside Esso with a bag of knives and chisels and an axe.
“There were reports of criminal damage in Clifton and Henlow.
“There were linked cases; theft from a motor vehicle in Broad Street, Clifton and a Landrover Discovery’s tyre was slashed in Broad Street.
“He attempted to break into Henlow Cars in Clifton Road, Henlow and he smashed a window to the front of the property but no access was gained. He smashed the rear window of a silver BMW.”
A witness said: “He went on foot from Henlow to Clifton and Shefford with a great big axe smashing up cars.
“The police came swarming into the Tesco forecourt. He was on the wall laughing to himself.”
Hyet has been released on bail and his case will be heard at Luton Crown Court on Friday, December 6.