A man has been jailed for six years and six months after stabbing another man in the neck outside a pub near Ripon.
Gary Holdsworth, 52, of Melmerby, was sentenced at Leeds Crown Court today (Friday 30th October) after being found guilty of wounding with intent and possessing a knife in a public space.
The attack happened at The George and Dragon Inn in Melmerby at around 11.41pm on Thursday 4th December 2025.
An argument over payment turned physical before moving outside the pub, where Holdsworth stabbed the 46-year-old victim in the neck.
The victim required surgery, although hospital staff determined his injuries were not life-threatening.
Holdsworth fled the scene but was arrested at his home shortly afterwards.
He denied both offences but was convicted by a jury on 4th August. He had been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing.
The court also imposed a restraining order preventing him from contacting the victim and the victim’s partner until further order.
In her victim personal statement, the victim’s partner said:
"My boyfriend is a kind, loving, and caring man. On that day, he was stabbed in the neck and nearly lost his life. This was not just an attack - it was something that could have taken him away from all of us forever.
"Since that day, my life has completely changed.
"I live with fear, anxiety, and constant worry about what happened and what could have happened. The images and emotions stay with me, and it is something I cannot escape.
"This incident has deeply affected not just me, but our entire family. It has taken away our sense of safety, peace, and normal life."
Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Quinn, the senior investigating officer, said:
“I welcome the sentencing of Gary Holdsworth who has been held accountable for his shocking actions that night.
"The use of a knife to inflict such a serious injury is a deeply concerning act of violence with the potential to cause life threatening harm and devastating consequences for victims and their families.
"My thoughts remain with the victim as he continues to deal with the physical and emotional impact of this incident.
"We recognise the lasting effects that offences of this nature have on individuals, families, and the wider community."
She added:
"This case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of carrying and using knives.
"Violence of this nature will be treated with the utmost seriousness, and we remain committed to working with our partners and the community to prevent knife crime, protect the public and bring offenders to justice.”
A 41-year-old man who was also charged in connection with the incident was found not guilty of affray.
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