AN "EXTREMELY violent" armed attacker has been found guilty of attempted murder at a Nisa shop in Herefordshire.

Alexander Stone, 38, of Bridge Street in Kington was found guilty of attempted murder after he struck the victim over the head and back with a hammer in Nisa, High Street.

The attack, at midday on Friday, July 22, 2022, was in full view of shoppers and members, many of whom intervened, Worcester Crown Court heard.

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West Mercia Police Detective Constable Leah Lowe, the investigating officer, said: “We welcome the verdict today which comes at the end of a detailed investigation.

"The victim has shown considerable courage in what has been a deeply distressing case."

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She added: "Stone acted with extreme violence and if it hadn’t been for the intervention of members of public prior to the arrival of the police, the outcome may have been far worse.

"I hope this reassures the community that we will deal with such acts of violence with determination and ensure that victims are supported and given the confidence to come forward."

Stone is due to be sentenced next month at Worcester Crown Court.