In June last year, a horrific knife attack occurred in Urmston when Michael Canning ambushed a 22-year-old semi-professional footballer and model in an alleyway. The victim was assaulted over 32 times in a frenzied attack.

The attack took place as the victim was walking home from work and was suddenly grabbed in a chokehold by Canning, now 23. Despite efforts to count the strikes, the victim was overwhelmed by the sheer number of blows.

After feigning death, Canning fled but was later caught. He was tried and found guilty of attempted murder at the Manchester Crown Court in December last year.

Justice for the victim meant emergency surgery and long-term physical and emotional recovery. The victim now faces ongoing trauma and inability to work due to injuries and psychological scars.

Canning, a resident of Trafford, initially denied involvement but was ultimately sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 20 years before eligibility for parole. A serious prior conviction for causing grievous bodily harm was also revealed during the trial.

DS Phill Xavier of GMP's Trafford District expressed sympathy for the victim and condemned the unprovoked nature of the crime. He emphasized the ongoing effort to combat knife crime within the community.