A MAN has admitted to brutally stabbing a woman and has been told to prepare for a long prison sentence.

James Thomas appeared at Basildon Crown Court on Friday afternoon in relation to an incident in St Benet’s Road, Southend were a woman was stabbed.

The 24-year-old was charged with attempted murder and possession of a bladed article.

Appearing via videolink from HMP Belmarsh, Thomas admitted both offences.

READ MORE: Man charged with attempted murder as woman is stabbed in Southend

After adjourning sentencing, the Judge John Lodge warned Thomas he would face a lengthy spell behind bars.

Judge Lodge said: “You have pleaded guilty to the most serious of matters and you should be prepared for a long prison sentence.

“You will remain in custody for the meantime and thank you for your attendance today.”

During the hearing, Thomas, of Kingsway, Westcliff, spoke only to confirm his name, age and nationality, as well as to enter his pleas, with four family members watching on from the public gallery.

The incident took place on November 29 last year, in St Benet’s Road, Southend.

Police were called to reports of a woman having been assaulted at about 6.45pm.

Officers attended and found a woman with stab wounds and she was taken to hospital for treatment. Thomas was arrested a short time later and subsequently charged before appearing at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on December 1.

He will now be sentenced on February 15.

Judge Lodge adjourned sentencing after Stephen Rose, prosecuting, stated the victim wanted to be present, but was currently in France after returning home after the attack.

Anya Lewis, mitigating, also asked the judge for an adjournment adding it would be beneficial for Thomas to be present at the sentencing, rather than appearing through videolink.