JOHN WALKER

DURHAM MAN JAILED FOR ASSAULT THAT BLINDED PARTNER

A man who partially-blinded his partner in a "horrific" attack has been sentenced to nearly three years in prison.John Walker, 56, committed an assault on the woman on 28 June, during which he threw a phone at her and repeatedly punched her in the face, leaving her in "excruciating" pain.

The Durham Crown Court was told he ignored her desperate pleas to get an ambulance.

When she was finally taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, her injuries included the permanent loss of sight in one eye.

The court heard blood was pouring from her face, and she was in severe pain.

Walker admitted to wounding without intent and was sentenced to 33 months in prison.Judge Joanne Kidd described Walker's actions as posing a "real risk" to the woman and expressed hope that measures would be taken to ensure her safety after his release.

She emphasized that her life had been "devastated" by the attack and that Walker had a history of posing a high risk, especially under the influence of alcohol and cocaine.

Walker was seen crying during the proceedings, though it was unclear who he was crying for, himself or his victim.

The judge also stated that no restraining order had been sought, which caused her concern, and requested that everything possible be done to protect the victim in the future.