A MAN has been jailed for almost nine years for repeatedly stabbing his ex-girlfriend in a premeditated attack.

Matthew Greenwood drove from his Bolton home to ambush his former partner before attacking her from behind.

He was sentenced at Burnley Crown Court to eight years and eight months in prison for the stabbing.

The court heard how he lay in wait for his victim at an address in Kirkfield, Chipping, in the Ribble Valley, on January 7.

Greenwood, aged 28 and of George Street, Farnworth, had brought a knife with him and then attacked the 20-year-old woman from behind and stabbed her several times in the abdomen and back.

He also ran the knife across her throat in a slitting motion during the "nasty and clearly premeditated" attack before the woman was taken to Royal Preston Hospital for treatment.

Greenwood was arrested by police following a pursuit a short time later at Rivington Services on the M61.

At court he admitted causing grievous bodily harm with intent before he was given the lengthy sentence.

Detective Constable Karen Haynes, of Burnley CID, said: “I am pleased with the sentence which reflects the gravity of the offence. This was a nasty and clearly premeditated attack on a young woman who must have been absolutely terrified of what was going to happen to her. She is very fortunate not to have been more seriously injured.”