A schizophrenic has been detained indefinitely under the Mental Health Act after he slashed a pensioner with a kitchen knife.

David Newport, 49, left Jean Battell, a friend's neighbour, with multiple stab wounds on February 15. The 65-year-old needed stitches for 10 separate injuries.

Newport, who lived in a tent beside a public footpath, had been drinking cider all day with friend David Thomas at his home in Matthews Way, Wootton, near Abingdon.

Alan Kent, prosecuting, told Oxford Crown Court yesterday (October 28) that Mrs Battell went to Mr Thomas's house to ask Newport to leave after he made an offensive remark. Newport then attacked her with a kitchen knife. Mrs Battell ran from the house, followed by Newport, who repeatedly stabbed her, before hitting her over the head.

The court heard Newport was taken to Littlemore Hospital and treated for schizophrenia before being found fit to stand trial for attempted murder. He admitted wounding with intent.

Judge Hall ordered he should be detained indefinitely under the Mental Health Act for the protection of the public.