A NIGHTCLUB reveller survived a drunken attack in which he was stabbed in the head with a 3in knife, a court heard yesterday.

David Siddle was taken to hospital with the pocket knife protruding from his temple, following the attack in April.

He underwent a life-saving operation to remove the blade under general anaesthetic.

Newcastle Crown Court heard that the attack happened as Mr Siddle and his friend enjoyed a night out in Consett, County Durham.

Chris Prince, prosecuting, said the victim and his friend came across Scott Thompson and a friend and an argument began.

Mr Prince said that the altercation was not a serious one but the two groups met later in the evening.

The court heard how Mr Siddle walked past Thompson, who was watching two other men fighting in the street.

Mr Prince said: "The next thing that happened was that Mr Siddle felt a thud to the right side of his head. As he turned his head, he saw the defendant's hand pull away."

Mr Siddle did not realise what had happened and was told by a friend that the knife was in the side of his head.

Paramedics and police were called to the scene in the town's Victoria Road and he was taken to hospital.

The court heard how the delicate operation went smoothly with no complications and Mr Siddle was allowed home after four days.

In a witness statement, he said: "My life has undergone a complete change. I am scared to go out alone in fear of another attack."

The court heard that Thompson, 18, of Consett, was originally charged with attempted murder but entered a guilty plea to a lesser charge.

Stephen Rich, defending, said: "This young man had gone out with his friend, Shane Plitch, who had in his possession the 3in blade in question.

"The defendant took it from Mr Plitch and, when he feared reprisals from the ongoing fight, he swung his hand in the direction of Mr Siddle."

Jailing Thompson, of Lumley Drive, Delves Lane, for two years, Judge David Hodson said: "It is a miracle that there was no more serious injuries."

Thompson, who admitted wounding with intent, was sent to a young offenders' institution.