A GRANDAD was left suffering nightmares after a thug hacked off his ear with a machete, a court was told.

Victim Alan Robson lost his ear and part of his finger in the street attack.

Mr Robson, 51, of Bensham, Gateshead, was repeatedly slashed and stabbed after investigating a noise outside the home of his girlfriend, Sylvia Brian, in Gateshead.

Darren Winston and his brother Lee Winston admitted their part in the attack when they appeared at Newcastle Crown Court, yesterday.

Darren Winston was on police bail for unlawful wounding when he was arrested for the attack, the court heard.

After the case, Mr Robson said: "I still have nightmares about the attack and can't sleep at night. I don't go out on my own. This has had a big effect on our lives.

"I hope they are sent to prison. They should not be allowed to walk away.

"Whatever happens in court, nothing can compensate for me losing an ear. I have been very lucky. Had the cut on my head been an inch either side, it would have gone into my skull."

Darren Winston, 23, of Claremont North Avenue, Gateshead, pleaded guilty to two charges of wounding with intent. Brother Lee Ronald Winston, 27, also of Claremont North Avenue, pleaded guilty to having an offensive weapon in a public place.

Recorder Timothy Stead adjourned the case for pre-sentence reports to be prepared.

Darren Winston was remanded in custody and Lee Ronald Winston was released on conditional bail.