A man who took the law into his own hands and badly hurt a former friend has been jailed for five years.

Jamie Roberts, 27, of Victoria Road, Margate, admitted wounding with intent when he appeared at Canterbury Crown Court.

John Fitzgerald, defending, said Roberts’ partner had lent the victim £10 for electricity but Roberts had wanted the money to buy cannabis.

“The victim did not return the money so Roberts went round to see him and found him drunk,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

“He was annoyed that he had spent money on drink but hadn’t repaid the £10.

"He lost his temper with the victim and caused serious injury. He regrets this as they used to be friends.”

Mr Fitzgerald said Roberts had done lots of courses while in custody.

Judge Adele Williams told Roberts: “You took the law into your own hands to deliver a punishment to the victim who had borrowed money.

"You caused very serious injuries and the victim had to go to a London hospital with a bleed on the brain.”