A man who stabbed a love rival in a rage has escaped being sent to prison.

Simon Webber was at his ex-girlfriend's home when he answered a knock at the door.

The caller was Karen Hooton's new boyfriend James Barker, Worcester Crown Court was told.

Webber flew into a temper and stabbed him under the left armpit with a kitchen knife he was holding, said Paul Whitfield, prosecuting.

In March, a jury convicted Webber, aged 29, of Northleach Close, Blackpole, Worcester, of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Judge Toby Hooper said it was an unusual case in which the defendant's family had been "truly marvellous" in their support.

They had found him a new home, bought him a car and given him an opportunity to re-establish his life.

The judge said he had a history of depression and advised him to keep out of personal relationships until he was more stable.

Webber was given 12 months' jail, suspended for two years, and told to do 180 hours of unpaid community work.

Mr Barker went round to Miss Hooton's flat in Canterbury Road, Kidderminster, on October 14 last year.

After the stabbing he ran from the property to a pub, chased by Webber, who ranted: "You've ruined something beautiful," said Mr Whitfield.

The victim was taken to hospital and his knife wound needed three stitches.

Webber told police he made a social call on Miss Hooton and they ended up dancing with each other.

He confessed to being "overcome with rage" but was unaware he still a knife in his hand after preparing food.

Michael Gray, defending, said Webber had made a clean break from his ex-girlfriend by moving to Worcester.

She had been evicted from the flat, which belonged to the defendant's father.