A PLUMBER who almost decapitated his girlfriend with a kitchen knife will be sentenced today.

James Richardson, of Berridge Green, Edwgare, could face years behind bars as he appears at the Old Bailey today to be sentenced for the manslaughter of 34-year-old Natalie Czekaj in January this year.

On September 3, the court heard that Richardson and his Polish girlfriend Ms Czekaj - who were both believed to be functioning alcoholics - were celebrating the New Year at home when the defendant attacked the victim with a kitchen knife.

At the time, he had a blood alcohol level four times the drink-drive limit and submitted a plea of diminished responsibility due to the fact he suffered from alcoholism.

Prosecutor Tim Cray QC accepted the plea and following the brief hearing Richardson, who was represented by Alexander Cameron QC, was remanded in custody.