A MAN was jailed for six years following a knife attack in his ex-partner's home.

Christopher Fothergill stabbed a man and left him needing hospital treatment in an altercation that took place in Darlington last August.

After carrying out the attack, Fothergill fled and evaded capture for several days, sparking a major manhunt.

Yesterday, the 34-year-old was imprisoned for six years over the stabbing, which happened after he confronted his former partner and the 30-year-old victim inside a property in the Skerne Park area of the town on Sunday, August 5 at around 6.15am.

Although the victim survived and has since made a recovery, detectives investigating the stabbing said it had been lucky that his injuries were not fatal.

Fothergill, of Hargreave Terrace, in Darlington, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, burglary and breach of a restraining order at Teesside Crown Court.

Officers who investigated the case welcomed the sentencing.

Detective chief inspector Caroline Davies said: “This was an unprovoked attack in which Fothergill took it upon himself to enter his ex-partner’s home and carry out a horrendous attack on his defenceless victim.

“He then tried to make things as difficult as possible for the police by attempting to evade capture.

“Nevertheless, he was apprehended quickly and brought before the courts where he has now received a sentence which reflects the seriousness of the attack.

“Fortunately, the victim survived his injuries which were initially considered to be life-threatening.

“There can be no excuse for this kind of violent behaviour and we will always work tirelessly to bring such offenders to justice, as in this case."