A MAN charged with the attempted murder of a woman has changed his plea to guilty.

Darren Chawner, 29, of Park Road, South Moor, near Stanley, denied the allegation when he appeared before Newcastle Crown Court in November.

He was due to stand trial next month for the attack carried out in the early hours of Saturday, August 6.

But he entered a guilty plea to attempted murder late this morning (Wednesday, January 4) while appearing via video link from HMP Holme House in Stockton where he is on remand.

Prosecuting, Daniel Cordey said he would ask for two charges of false imprisonment to be left to lie on file.

He said: “This indictment was put on November 28 when ‘not guilty’ pleas were entered on all three counts.

“I take the view that these other matters are part and parcel of count one.

“When it comes to sentencing I take the view that these matters are to be left on file.”

Caroline Goodwin, who represented Chawner, said the preparation of psychiatric reports would not be necessary ahead of sentencing.

Judge Paul Sloan, Recorder of Newcastle, adjourned proceedings for sentence until the afternoon of Wednesday, January 25.

He said: “The fact that I am adjourning is no indication of what sentence will be passed.

“A substantial custodial sentence is inevitable in the circumstances of this case.

“You will be remanded until then.”

The woman suffered stab wounds in the attack in Park Road, South Moor.