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Alan Williamson leaving North Tyneside magistrates court
A postman has admitted leaving his wife in a critical condition after stabbing her during an attack at their Tyneside home.
Alan Williamson knifed his partner of 16-years Justine Williamson at their house on Lanercost Drive, in Fenham, in December last year.
The 42-year-old has now been warned he faces a lengthy prison sentence after he pleaded guilty to wounding with intent to cause GBH at Newcastle Crown Court.
Wearing white trousers and a brown tracksuit top, Williams spoke only to confirm his name and enter his plea during the brief hearing.
Adjourning the case for sentence, Judge Paul Sloan QC said: “I’m directing the preparation of a pre-sentence report.
“You will understand that the fact I’m adjourning sentence and directing a report isn’t an indication of sentence.
“In fact, a significant custodial sentence is inevitable in this case.
“In the meantime, you will be remanded in custody.”
Jamie Adams, mitigating, said a psychiatric report would also be prepared for Williamson when he is brought back for sentence next month.
The attack happened at around 5.45pm on Sunday when Mr Williamson, a postman, stabbed Mrs Williamson, 41, three times - twice in the side and once in the chest.
She was taken to hospital where her condition at the time was described as critical but stable.
After the attack, on December 7, neighbours on the suburban street told of their shock.
Mary Welford, who had lived on the street for 20 years, said: “We’d been away for the weekend, and we’d only just got back when the police called to ask if we knew anything about it. I couldn't believe it.
“People here keep themselves to themselves. It’s such a shame.”
Another neighbour, who has lived on Lanercost Drive since 1949, said she was very upset.
She said: “I’m very shocked to think it could happen here. This area is very quiet.”
Another neighbour agreed, saying: “The first we knew about it was when we saw the blue lights out of the window last night.
“This is a quiet area. We’re really shocked.”
Williamson was remanded in custody to next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on the week commencing April 20.