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Middleton man jailed after CCTV shows axe attack that left victim with collapsed lung

Credit: Greater Manchester Police

A 38 year old man has been jailed for more than 12 years after carrying out a planned axe attack on a man in Middleton, leaving him with life threatening injuries.

38-year-old, Colan Entwistle, of Great Arbor Way in Middleton, was sentenced to 12 years and six months at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on Wednesday 25 February 2026. The sentence consists of eight years and six months in custody followed by four years on licence.

The court heard that on Wednesday 2 April 2025, Entwistle sent a series of threatening and abusive messages to his partner after discovering she was with her former partner.

In the early hours of Thursday 3 April 2025, Entwistle went to his partner’s address armed with an axe. As the man attempted to leave the property, Entwistle launched an attack.

The victim suffered a serious wound to his back which caused a collapsed lung and a punctured diaphragm. He required multiple operations and spent an extended period in hospital.

CCTV footage played to the court showed Entwistle waiting near the address, practising swings with the weapon and chasing the victim after the first strike.

Entwistle was arrested later that evening at an address in Oldham. He made no comment in police interview and did not provide an explanation or alibi.

While on remand, he sent letters to a witness in an attempt to persuade her to withdraw her support for the investigation. Officers also gathered further evidence that he had tried to interfere with witnesses.

Detective Constable Russ Clarke of Rochdale CID 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 & sought to utilise others to interfere with the investigation. It was only when faced with compelling evidence that he accepted his guilt.”

Greater Manchester Police said it remains committed to tackling violent crime and bringing offenders before the courts.

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