Consett brute who attacked woman with hammer jailed

The victim also suffered a fractured ankle after Mark Sturmey brutally stamped on her foot during the incident in March this year.

The victim, feeling scared and in need of help, turned to the North East Ambulance Service, who quickly alerted the police.

Sadly, this wasn't the first time she had been assaulted by the 59-year-old. Two years earlier, he had also repeatedly punched her in the head and thrown a photo frame and brown ale bottle at her, a hearing at Durham Crown Court was told.(Image: Durham Police)

The brave victim opened up to officers following the latest attack and Sturmey was charged and remanded into custody with a charge of Section 18 wounding with intent and two charges of assault causing Actual Bodily Harm.

Despite the incidents being captured on CCTV, Sturmey continued to deny the offence and was set for trial in August before suddenly changing his plea.

Sturmey, of Consett, was sentenced to five years and three months in prison in what the judge described as a “horrific” attack.

His victim was also granted an indefinite restraining order.

Investigating Officer, Ashley Marsden, of Consett Safeguarding Team, praised the victim for coming forward and working with officers to secure a conviction.

She said: “These were horrific and totally unprovoked attacks which made the victim fear for her life.

“She showed incredible courage coming forward and reporting the violence and we hope she can now start to rebuild her life.

“If you have been a victim of violence, please call us day or night. We believe you and you will be listened to.”

See more court stories from The Northern Echo by clicking here

• Group of drunken thugs kicked and punched man in unprovoked attack in Darlington
• Career criminal stole mobile phones when he crept into pensioners' bedroom
• Child rapist jailed for breach of court orders that 'take away his human rights'

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To report your experience, call Durham Constabulary on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.

If you’re more comfortable reporting online, you can visit Durham Police's online reporting page by clicking here. If you’re not ready to speak to police, there are other agencies who can help.

Local charity Harbour provides support to those experiencing domestic abuse. Call 03000 20 25 25 or visit www.myharbour.org.uk