Woman bailed after stabbing

John Duffield was stabbed on the Albertbridge Road

A woman accused of attempting to murder a man in east Belfast while out celebrating her 21st birthday has been released on bail.

Joanne McMaster, 21, from Dunvegan Street, East Belfast, is denying the attempted murder of 49 year-old John Duffield early on New Year's Day.

Defence barrister Alan Blackburn described Ms McMaster's celebrations as "the birthday party from hell."

He said she had been knocked down just before Mr Duffield was stabbed outside the Albert Bar.

She had a completely clear record and was strenuously denying the charge.

Crown lawyer David Hopley said Ms McMaster and two girl-friends had been drinking heavily and bar staff had to warn them about their behaviour.

RUC Detective Constable Michael Hamilton said Mr Duffield's heart stopped on the way to hospital.

He was revived and after being critically ill for a number of days he was now out of intensive care.

Mr Justice Girvan said there had been an "appalling increase" in the number of stabbings recently.

He had grave misgivings about granting bail in such cases but felt Ms McMaster could be released on strict conditions.

The judge ordered her to stay out of licensed premises, observe a night-time curfew and make no contact with Mr Duffield or his family.