A man who launched a violent and unprovoked attack on a stranger at a Sunderland bar has been convicted of attempted murder.

Emergency services were called to Bar Bloo on Derwent Street in the city centre at around 8pm on Sunday, February 13.

When officers arrived, they found a 48-year-old man had suffered multiple serious stab wounds to his neck and back and he was rushed to hospital in a critical condition.

Read more: First look inside Darlington's newest gym (and it's in a familiar place)

An investigation was immediately launched to locate the suspect who had been forcibly removed from the pub and then fled the scene on foot before officers arrived.

The Northern Echo: Rory Witten Rory Witten (Image: Rory Witten)

Within 24 hours, officers had used CCTV and forensic evidence to track down suspect Rory Witten, 40, who was swiftly arrested and later charged with attempted murder and possession of a bladed article.

Witten, of Stavordale Street in Seaham, County Durham, continued to deny his involvement in the attack, but he was today (Friday, October 14) found guilty of both offences by a jury following a week-long trial at Newcastle Crown Court.

He was remanded into custody and is scheduled to be sentenced before the same court at a later date still to be confirmed.

Read more: Huge firework display to go ahead in North East town as others are cancelled

Detective Sergeant John Baines, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, I would like to state that there is absolutely no place for violence in our communities.

“This was a shocking incident which saw Witten launch a violent and unprovoked attack on a man he did not know.

"Thankfully, the victim pulled through however this could have very easily resulted in a fatality.

“Witten has then gone on to prolong proceedings for the victim by continuing to plead his innocence throughout, despite strong CCTV and forensic evidence mounting against him.

“In the end, it was fantastic work by everyone involved including our Forensic Services Department who were able to locate numerous fingerprints on a pint glass that Witten was drinking from whilst in the premises and also finding the weapon used at Witten’s address which showed traces of the victim’s blood.

“Overall, this was a real team effort to bring Witten to justice and I would like to thank all of the officers and staff involved in this case.

“I am pleased that the jury has been able to convict Witten for his appalling crime, and we will continue to do everything we can to target perpetrators and bring effective justice against them.”

To get more stories direct to your email basket go here 

Read next:

If you want to read more great stories, why not subscribe to your Northern Echo for as little as £1.25 a week. Click here.