A TEENAGER is facing a jail sentence for biting off part of his half-brother's ear during a fight after a family birthday party.

Stuart Curtis, 17, attacked 20-year-old Michael Wilson on the doorstep of his home in Darlington on January 31, a court was told.

Earlier that night, they had been celebrating their mother's 50th birthday at a town centre bar, and returned to another relative's home.

Mr Wilson left after a row with his half-brother, but Curtis chased him down Hargreave Terrace and punched him in the left eye.

The victim put his attacker in a bear-hug and tried to calm him down, and was stunned to find blood all over his shoulders.

After going inside his home and looking in the mirror, Mr Wilson realised that part of his right ear was missing.

Curtis yesterday admitted unlawful wounding and will be sentenced on September 13 after background reports have been prepared.

The teenager, of Low Martin Field Cottages, Ramshaw, Bishop Auckland, was given bail, but warned all sentencing options are open.