A KNIFE attacker who brutally slashed a man in a Greenock nightclub is today behind bars.

Andrew Sutherland attacked Christopher McAuley in Word Up last December.

The 27-year-old thug lashed out after a bouncer had tried to step in between the pair.

His blood soaked victim later required hospital treatment for a neck wound, leaving him scarred for life.

Sutherland yesterday pled guilty to assaulting the 29-year-old to his severe injury, permanent disfigurement and impairment as well to the danger of his life.

The customer sales adviser – who had faced an attempted murder allegation – was remanded in custody pending sentencing next month.

Prosecutor Jo McDonald told the High Court in Glasgow how the pair had been known to each other.

She said prior to the attack there had been ‘minor confrontations’ between them on the dancefloor of the club.

Sutherland, of Union Street, later claimed he had been defending himself, while McAuley refused to co-operate with police after the attack, the court heard.

Judge Lady Stacey has deferred sentencing on Sutherland for background reports to be prepared.