A FATHER-of-three who stabbed a Godmanchester man five times in a jealous rage, claiming the victim had been flirting with his former girlfriend, has been jailed for life. Barry Everall was said to have died twice following the knife attack at a propert

A FATHER-of-three who stabbed a Godmanchester man five times in a jealous rage, claiming the victim had been flirting with his former girlfriend, has been jailed for life.

Barry Everall was said to have "died twice" following the knife attack at a property in Erica Road, St Ives, last September by 42-year-old Andrew Walch.

It is thought Walch, of no fixed address, confronted Mr Everall, 34, of White Hart Lane, Godmanchester, out of jealousy after he saw him approach his former lover. A punch was thrown and Walch retaliated with a knife.

Detectives working on the case said Mr Everall is "lucky to be alive" after he suffered serious stab wounds to his chest, stomach and arms with a kitchen knife.

"It was very nearly a murder case because, technically, Mr Everall died at the end of the assault but the quick thinking and professional work of paramedics and staff at Hinchingbrooke and Addenbrooke's hospitals saved his life," said Detective Inspector John Betts. "It is remarkable that he is alive, he is exceptionally lucky".

One of the knife wounds went through Mr Everall's chest, piercing his heart and causing him life threatening injuries.

Walch, who was said to have a long history of violence, had discharged himself from hospital the day of the attack after being admitted following a suicide bid.

At Cambridge Crown Court on Wednesday, Walch was cleared of attempted murder, but found guilty of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm.

He denied the charges and maintained he had acted in self defence.

Walch, who has an estimated life-span of five to 10 years due to a liver complaint, was told he would have to serve at least five years in prison, but would not be released until the Parole Board is satisfied he poses no risk to the public.

Detective Sergeant Simon Peters, who worked on the case, added: "[Walch] was a very nasty and dangerous man and we are pleased he is off the streets."

Mr Everall, who has a son, is said to be making a full recovery despite being unable to work as a roofer. The attack left him unable to straighten one of his arms.