The streets of Oxford will be much safer without the likes of Lee Davies.

He launched such a savage attack in an alleyway at Barton that his victim, Stephen Taylor, faces spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

Davies will have plenty of time to reflect on his mindless thuggery in his prison cell.

The only surprise at Oxford Crown Court yesterday was that the judge did not sentence him to longer than 6 years. With good behaviour, he will be free in just over three years.

Meanwhile, Stephen, once a lively, outgoing teenager, faces the prospect of a life sentence of his own.

Nearly a year after the attack, he still cannot walk and needs constant care from his devoted parents.

Sadly, when Davies leaves prison and tastes freedom, the likelihood is that Stephen will still be struggling to build his shattered life.

Is that justice?