A SWORD-WIELDING man has admitted launching a savage attack on a pub-goer as he made his way home.

John Barkas was left with wounds to his head and hand after being attacked with a Samurai sword last December. He needed ten staples in two separate gashes.

Newcastle Crown Court heard that Mr Barkas had been involved in a row at Dougies Tavern in Hebburn then had a fight with Paul Brennan, 26, after he left.

But when he arrived home he was approached by Brennan, armed with the sword.

Brennan, of Jutland Avenue, Hebburn, denied the attack, saying Mr Barkas had attacked him after he went to the house to apologise.

He pleaded not guilty to wounding with intent, but on the second day of his trial admitted unlawful wounding, which was accepted by the Crown Prosecution Service.

His was granted bail and will be sentenced in three weeks after the preparation of reports.