A MAN has been sentenced to six and a half years in prison for hacking a man who thought he was a friend with a knife for more than two hours

Mark Patterson, 32, of Eastview Terrace, Sedlescombe near Battle, denied the charge of grevious bodily harm, but was found guilty following a two-day trial at Lewes Crown Court on Thursday.

The attack on September 24 last year took place at the victim's Bexhill home in Mistley Close.

The 31-year-old victim, who had invited Patterson into his home, sustained knife wounds to his neck, arms and torso.

He was taken to the Conquest Hospital, Hastings, and treated for his wounds.

Detective Constable Julian Stokes said: "The injuries Patterson inflicted on the victim, who thought him a friend, resulted in permanent nerve damage, but the he was lucky to escape without worse injuries.

 "I am pleased that a custodial sentence has been delivered for this violent crime."