A PUB landlord says he is fortunate to be alive after being stabbed in the back when he confronted a gang of youths.

Kevin Newman, 35, needed hospital treatment after the incident outside The Bay View pub in Leysdown Road, Leysdown, Sheppey.

Mr Newman said: “Three people came into the pub and I asked them to leave nicely as they weren’t buying any drinks. Next thing, they came back with about five or six others and they had hammers and knives.

“I went outside in the car park just to say we didn’t want any trouble and the next thing I know someone shouts 'there’s a knife.’ As I ran away he caught me in the back with the knife.

“I remember thinking I couldn’t walk and dragging myself into the pub where they called an ambulance."

Mr Newman, who was detained overnight in hospital on Saturday, added: “I know I’m lucky to be alive."

* A 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault and criminal damage. He has been bailed pending further inquiries.

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