A “BRUTAL relentless and cowardly attack on a man who was lying on the ground drunk and incapable of defending himself”.

An attack researched and planned to emulate serial killers.

That is how Mr Justice Robin Spencer summed up the murder of James Attfield.

Mr Justice Spencer said: “You murdered him in cold blood.

“You told the police you had sneaked out of the house through the living room window while your parents were in bed, so as not to disturb them by using the front door.

“You were looking for someone to attack and kill. You were armed with a large knife, which you described and drew for the police. You were wearing gloves, so as not to leave fingerprints.”

He praised Mr Attfield who fought against the odds to save his life, evident from the multiple defensive wounds to his hands and arm.

He added: “The pathologist observed that there were a large number of comparatively superficial wounds consistent with just the tip of the knife penetrating, which in his opinion might indicate deliberation. In my judgment those injuries demonstrate an element of control inconsistent with your description of going into a rage.

“It is significant that in some of the materials found at your home, notably a DVD called “Wrong Turn the Carnage Collection” and a DVD called “Serial Killers Real Life Hannibal Lecters” there were scenes and descriptions of repeated stabbings causing superficial wounds before the fatal injuries were inflicted.”

Mr Justice Spencer claimed the teen killer took pleasure in knowing what an impact the murder had on people.

He said: “You were well aware of the publicity this first murder had attracted. I have no doubt that you relished the sense of power and control that it gave you.”