A man is facing a long sentence for cutting another man’s throat in a random attack on a bar boat on the River Medway.

Sean McLaren, 37, pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Brett Banks shortly before his trial was due to start at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday.

The victim was at the Rochester Queen bar in Cuxton on March 2 when McLaren approached from behind, pulled back his head and ran the knife across his throat.

The blade just missed a vital jugular vein. Mr Banks was taken to hospital and treated for the six-inch wound he suffered. The attack happened in full view of guests attending a birthday party.

McLaren, who comes from Cuxton and is known as Starkie, was remanded in custody until sentence on September 22.

Ordering a psychiatric report, Judge James O’Mahony told McLaren: "You have pleaded guilty to the most serious matter. The court will have to consider dangerousness."