THE victim of a cruel torturer has been offered future protection, in the form of a court order forbidding his tormentor approaching him or making contact.

Arron Stephenson was jailed for five years at Durham Crown Court, last month, after admitting wounding with intent, over the drink and drug-fuelled attack at a flat in South Moor, Stanley, in the early hours of November 19.

His victim was put through a terrifying ordeal at his hands, during which he feared he was going to have his throat slit.

The court heard he suffered potentially life-threatening injuries, including a stab wound to the knee, a slash to one arm and a gash to the other, plus multiple tendon damage.

Stephenson, 23, of East Side Avenue, Bearpark, was back before the court, via video link from Durham Prison, following a prosecution application for a restraining order to be put in place.

The sentencing judge, Recorder Ian Atherton, said, given the nature of the attack and Stephenson’s previous record for violence, it was “entirely appropriate” to make the order.

It prevents Stephenson trying to make contact with his victim, either in person or through a third party, or via social media, and not to approach within 50-metres, with the onus on him to move away. if they cross paths.

The recorder said it should apply, “until further order”, effectively, “indefinitely”.