A thug who left a have-a-go hero permanently disfigured by slashing him across the face has been jailed for six years.

Matthew Bray bravely stepped in when he saw Marcus Campbell attacking his girlfriend in the street.

The victim, who needed 26 stitches in the wound, was at Maidstone Crown Court to hear a judge praise his actions and recommend him for a High Sheriff's commendation.

Mr Bray, from Chatham, was at an Indian takeaway in Watling Street, Gillingham, on December 12 last year when he heard a commotion outside. He went outside to find Campbell holding a woman against a shop front.

Audio: Victim Matthew Bray describes what happened during the attack

He tried to intervene but a fight ensued and Campbell threatened: "I am going to slit your throat. I am going to cut you up."

He went to get something from his girlfriend's handbag and then lashed out. He claimed he slashed Mr Bray with an object picked up from the ground.

The victim suffered a 5cm long cut to his face and was in hospital for a week.

Cambell, of Rotary Gardens, Gillingham, admitted causing grievous bodily harm with intent and possessing drugs.

Jo Cope, prosecuting, said Campbell had four months earlier been caught with small amounts of heroin and crack cocaine at the Railway Hotel in Gillingham. Matthew Bray's scar

Pick up a copy of Monday's print edition of the Medway Messenger for more on this story.