Attempted killer hurled racist abuse at victim

Kevin Wood admitted attempted murder

A man who attempted to murder a man with weapons including cans of beer has been jailed for 15 years.

Kevin Wood, 38, hurled racist abuse at his victim as he struck him some 50 times with punches, kicks and cans, Northumbria Police said.

Wood fled when someone else intervened, the force said, with the victim suffering extensive facial injuries, including a detached lip.

Wood, of York Drive in Wallsend, admitted attempted murder, and will have to serve a further five years on extended licence upon his eventual release from prison, a Newcastle Crown Court judge ruled.

'Shocking display of violence'

Wood carried out the "vicious" attack in the early hours of 22 August and was arrested a short while afterwards having hidden behind a wall, a police spokeswoman said.

Following Wood's sentencing, Det Insp Michelle Moir, of Northumbria Police, said it had been a "lengthy and complex investigation", describing Wood as a "dangerous offender".

"The attack Wood carried out was a shocking display of violence, and I'm pleased that we were able to swiftly locate him before getting him into custody and later charged," she said.

She also said officers were "grateful" for the intervention of a nearby resident who "did their best to stop Wood from attacking the victim".

A restraining order banning Wood from contacting his victim was also made.