by Julia Roberts

A drunk knifed a dozing man in the neck to leave a deep wound that exposed a vertebra in his spine, a court heard.

Aaron Coco Smith left Iain Gillis with the life-threatening injury during an unprovoked attack.

The slash wound measured 15cm long and 6cm deep, but doctors were able to stitch it and save Mr Gillis's life.

The 62-year-old was sleeping on his bed at his home in Kirkdale Road, Tunbridge Wells, when he awoke to feel Smith pushing the knife into the back of his neck.

Smith, 35, had moments before slashed the neck of Mr Gillis's pal Carl Pring. He had passed out from shock and fear.

Prosecutor Denzil Pugh told Maidstone Crown Court Mr Gillis put his hand up to try and push the weapon away and was cut on his hand.

"He then tried to turn his neck to one side, but Smith persisted in cutting into his neck - and cutting with sustained force going down to his vertebrae," said Mr Pugh.

Smith, of Elizabeth Garlick Court, Goods Station Road, Tunbridge Wells, admitted attempting to murder Mr Gillis and unlawfully wounding Mr Pring.

Smith was using Mr Gillis's flat as a bail address. Mr Gillis, who was in poor health, was not happy about the arrangement but agreed.

Mr Pring, who is in his early 40s, and Mr Gillis had on April 21 been drinking "considerable quantities" of vodka.

Smith, who was also drunk, and his girlfriend arrived at the flat.

As they continued drinking, Mr Pugh said Smith became increasingly agitated.

Smith then picked up a knife from the floor and approached Mr Pring as he sat in an armchair.

"He drew that knife, not with great force, three times over his neck, cutting his neck in the process," said the prosecutor.

"Mr Pring was so alarmed and taken aback that he passed out - not through the extent of the injury, but through shock and fear of what was happening."

Mr Gillis was then attacked and Smith left with his girlfriend.

Judge Philip Statman adjourned sentence until November 4 for reports. Smith was remanded in custody.