A man from Anglesey has been jailed following a stabbing in Holyhead.

James Rees, 19, of Cae Ysgubor, Trearddur Bay, appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court today (December 19) charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

He was sentenced to nine years' imprisonment, and also received an indefinite restraining order.

Following a very serious and unprovoked knife attack by Rees on the evening of January 7, 2022, police said the the victim regards himself as being extremely lucky to have survived.

He was grateful to the quick thinking of his friend at the scene and subsequent skilled surgery that he received at Ysbyty Gwynedd.

Detective Constable Leslie Ellis said: “This is a stark reality check for those who seek to carry and use knives on the streets of North Wales and the length of the sentence rightly reflects what can be expected from those who breach the law in this way.

"It is most fortunate that a life was not lost here, as the sentence could have been significantly more.

“My thoughts are with the victim and his family today and hope they are reassured with today’s outcome.”

Detective Inspector Adam Sergeant said: “Carrying a knife and using it in such a way can have catastrophic consequences for all involved.

"This cowardly attack nearly cost a young man his life; it was only for the quick thinking of his friend and expertise of the medical staff at Ysbyty Gwynedd that he survived.

“The sentence passed today is welcomed; people who carry knives and use them in this way belong in custody where they present no further danger to the public and where they can be afforded time to reflect on the magnitude of their actions.”