A VIOLENT knifeman has been found guilty of attempted murder after stabbing a woman on a boat.

David Rackett, of Scours Lane, Reading, was brought before Reading Crown Court this week after the attack in April last year.

During a six-day trial, the court heard details of how Rackett met a woman in her 40s on Oxford Road on Sunday, April 16.

About 9.45pm the pair walked together to a boat in Scours Lane in which he was living.

Police said 10 minutes after they got to his home, Rackett launched the violent attack on his victim throwing her to the floor and strangling her.

The victim freed herself from his grip before he stabbed her in the throat, saying her life wasn't worth living.

Rackett then thrust the knife towards the victim's stomach but she was able to grab the weapon and run away to safety.

He was arrested the same day and taken to custody.

A police cordon was seen in the area for several hours following the attack.

The 57-year-old was found guilty by a unanimous jury at Reading Crown Court on Monday, February 2.

He will be sentenced at the same court on March 17.

Investigating officers Sergeant Andy Philpott and Detective Constable Kevin Godding, of Reading CID, said: “Rackett carried out a sustained attack and given the level of violence used, it is remarkable that the victim was not left with more serious injuries.

“He is a dangerous offender and we hope this conviction shows that we will use all of our resources to prosecute those who commit such serious violence.”