Man admits vicious assault in the street (From This Is Lancashire)

Man admits vicious assault in the street

9:50am Tuesday 4th September 2012 in News

A MAN has admitted carrying out a brutal attack which left his victim fighting for his life.

Shaun Beazley, aged 22, of Bolton Road, Westhoughton , was due to stand trial, charged with the attempted murder of Andrew Thomas on March 4.

But yesterday he admitted a lesser charge of unlawful and malicious wounding at Bolton Crown Court.

Beazley stabbed 26-year-old Mr Thomas in Bolton Road and left him in a quiet residential street.

A passing motorist came across Mr Thomas, who had a cut to his face and stab wounds to his body.

He was taken to hospital, where his condition was described as life-threatening.

David Toal, prosecuting, said: “There was always a concern about whether the prosecution would be able to prove Beazley had an intention to kill because the complainant had no recollection and the only eye witness was extremely drunk and had given different accounts.”

He said the prosecution became aware Beazley accepted he caused the injuries.

Beazley has remained in custody since he was arrested following the incident.

A police cordon was placed in Bolton Road, from Park Road to Central Drive after the attack.

The community was shocked by the attack, which is believed to have happened after a party.

A 79-year-old woman said: “It’s frightening what’s happened. I don’t go out at night on my own.”

Judge Timothy Clayson adjourned the case a for sentencing on October 1.

Judge Clayson, addressing Beazley, said: “You have pleaded guilty to the charge.

“I will adjourn the case to October 1 when you will be dealt with finally by me.

“It is important I have a report about you.”