A 39-YEAR-OLD has been jailed after slashing a man's face and causing life-changing injuries in a Widnes pub.

Clint Kelly, of Lea Street, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place and was sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison at Liverpool Crown Court yesterday, Tuesday.

On October 7, Kelly was acting aggressively by shouting and swearing at a woman in the smoking area of The Derby pub in Widnes Road.

At about 8pm, a 58-year-old man pushed Kelly back into the pub after telling him to stop.

Kelly, who was clearly intoxicated, left briefly before running back to slash the man across the face with a knife.

The victim was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital and is still receiving treatment as it is feared he may have permanent damage to his face.

Speaking after the hearing, Detective inspector Ian Whiley said: "This case is a classic example of why people shouldn’t carry knives.

"A few cross words in the smoking area of a pub has led to the victim suffering a serious facial injury requiring ongoing medical treatment and Kelly behind bars serving a five-and-a-half-year sentence.

"Thankfully in this case the injury the victim sustained was not life threatening, however it was life changing.

"When people carry knives it is only a matter of time before someone suffers life changing injuries or is sadly killed.

"The simple fact is if you carry a knife then you are much more likely to be involved in a knife crime.

"Carrying a knife doesn’t make you safer and the consequences can be devastating for all of those involved.

"Kelly’s victim may be left with a permanent physical reminder of what happened that night and the terrifying attack has also left him with psychological scars.

"I hope the significant custodial sentence that Kelly has received for his actions will deter other people from carrying knives and that it sends out a strong message that we will not tolerate knife crime in Widnes.

"Knife crime is an issue that rightly causes serious concern within the Widnes area and impacts on all of our communities."

Anyone who knows someone that carries a knife can report it to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

To report any type of knife crime call Cheshire Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Information can also be reported online.