A man has been jailed after leaving his new drinking partner unconscious after an unprovoked attack.

Michael Kennedy had just met his victim at a pub in Consett last June when the pair spent a few hours drinking together before deciding to make their way home just before 1am.

But while they were walking home along Front Street, Kennedy launched an unprovoked attack by punching his victim, causing him to fall to the ground.

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The 61-year-old then continued to kick his victim in the head, leaving him with a fractured skull and causing a bleed on the brain.

The Northern Echo: LOCKED UP: Michael KennedyLOCKED UP: Michael Kennedy (Image: DURHAM POLICE)

Kennedy left the scene, leaving the victim unconscious while passers-by were left to call for an ambulance and wait with him until the emergency services arrived.

Appeared at Durham Crown Court on Thursday (November 24) morning, Kennedy was jailed for 4 years and 9 months.

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His victim has now made a full recovery.

Detective Constable Christopher Bentham said: “This was a completely unprovoked attack which could have been catastrophic had the victim not pulled through.

“Kennedy showed no remorse leaving the victim completely alone and unconscious.

“I would like to thank the witnesses who remained at the scene and got the victim the help he needed; their actions may have ultimately saved his life.”

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