A knifeman has been jailed for more than five years after leaving a man in hospital needing facial surgery.

Shaun Lawrence, 38 of Eaton Close, Bletchley, approached a man, now aged 33, and started arguing with him on July 17, 2018, at around 2.45am in Shearmans, Fuller Slade, Milton Keynes.

He then slashed the man across the face with a concealed blade, causing the victim to suffer a 10-12cm laceration to the left side of his face.

He was also left needing surgery, with police saying while he has recovered, he now has significant facial scarring.

Lawrence was found guilty by a unanimous jury to wounding with intent, contrary to section 18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861 and having an article with a blade or point, contrary to section 139 (1) of the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

He was sentenced at Amersham Crown Court on Monday, July 5, to seven years and six months behind bars, along with three years on extended licence.

Investigating officer, Sergeant Alana Heaver, based at Milton Keynes police station, said; “This was an appalling, unprovoked assault.

“Lawrence went out with a concealed blade in his hand and intentionally used it without warning to cause devastating injuries.

“The victim was unarmed and had no indication before being injured that Lawrence had a blade. Following the assault, Lawrence then walked away, leaving his victim bleeding heavily in the street.

“This has been a long process, there has been three years of investigation and I would like to take a moment to thank the victim in this case for his bravery and support, particularly throughout the trial.

“Thames Valley Police work tirelessly to tackle knife crime robustly and bring knife crime offenders to justice through the courts.

“If you have concerns or information about anyone carrying a bladed or sharp object in public, please contact us on 101 or you can report it anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”