POLICE called to deal with an assault believed they were looking for a body because of the amount of blood at the scene.

Durham Crown Court was told the victim was struck over the head with a hi-fi speaker and other items of furniture in the assault by a man at the home of a friend.

But the explanation for the assault remains a mystery, because both had consumed a large amount of alcohol prior to the incident.

Robert Woodcock, prosecuting, said police found a scene of disruption after being called to the house, in School Avenue, Seaham, County Durham, on June 2.

"A police officer who attended said they saw so much blood they thought they were looking for a body," said Mr Woodcock.

"They described it as a disgusting and distressing scene."

Mr Woodcock said the victim, who initially refused to co-operate with police, was taken to hospital requiring "considerable treatment" for facial injuries.

The assailant, John Greenwood, was arrested and made no replies during two police interviews.

Mr Woodcock said statements by the victim and the householder described Greenwood calling at the house before carrying out the attack.

The householder tried to intervene, but he too came in for punishment.

John Temple, for Greenwood, said that despite intending to settle down with his pregnant girlfriend, he was "realistic" about the likely outcome of the case.

Greenwood, 33, of Ryton Crescent, Seaham, admitted wounding with intent and assault causing actual bodily harm.

Jailing him for two years, Judge Maurice Carr told Greenwood: "The attack was totally inexplicable and the ferocity is worrying.

"I have no alternative but to send you to prison as your record indicates you are a risk to the public."