Man jailed after a violent and premeditated attack

A 38-year-old man has been sentenced to prison following a violent attack on another male that left the victim with a collapsed lung and punctured diaphragm.

Colan Entwistle of Great Arbor Way, Middleton, was sentenced to more than 12 years, which includes four years on licence following the hearing at Manchester Minshull Street on Wed (Feb 25). 

He was also given a restraining order prohibiting contact with his victim and barring him from locations associated with the attack. 

The court heard how on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, Entwistle sent a series of threatening and abusive messages to his partner; after learning she was in the company of her ex-partner.  

Early next morning, Entwistle arrived at his partner's address armed with an axe and launched a brutal assault on the man as he attempted to leave the property. 

The victim sustained a serious wound to his back, resulting in a collapsed lung and punctured diaphragm, requiring multiple surgeries and an extended hospital stay.  

The ferocity of the attack was witnessed and captured on CCTV, which showed Entwistle loitering near the address, practicing swings with the weapon, and pursuing the victim after the initial strike. 

Entwistle was arrested later that evening at an address in Oldham, where he made no comment during a police interview and offered no explanation, alibi, or remorse for his actions. 

Whilst remanded in custody, Entwistle sent several letters to the witness to pressure her to withdraw her cooperation with the investigation. Further evidence was also gathered which showed Entwistle had made additional efforts to influence witnesses and interfere with justice. 

Detective Constable Russ Clarke of Rochdale CID, who led the investigation, said: “This was a calculated and vicious attack that could have easily resulted in a fatality. The level of planning, the nature of the threats, and the choice of weapon all point to a clear intent to cause serious harm. Thanks to the bravery of the victim and the swift response of emergency services, the victim survived and Entwistle was quickly apprehended.” 

“The victim continues to come to terms with what happened that night & recover both physically & psychologically. Entwistle displayed a complete disregard for human life, fuelled by alcohol & jealousy. 

“It became clear during the investigation that Entwistle believed he could evade justice for his actions and sought to utilise others to interfere with the investigation. It was only when faced with compelling evidence that he accepted his guilt.”