A thug who attacked another man at a hotel with a machete was today warned to expect a “substantial” jail sentence.

Lee Phillips, of St Welcume’s Way, Harrietsham, admitted wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm between February 21 and 24.

His not guilty plea to possessing an offensive weapon, the machete, was accepted by the prosecution.

Maidstone Crown Court heard that both men were at The Village Hotel, at Junction 5 of the M20, near Maidstone.

Danny Moore, prosecuting, said “minor words” were exchanged between Phillips, 30, and victim Daniel Lewis. Phillips then went away and returned with the weapon.

He repeatedly struck Mr Lewis and caused a serious wound to his head.

Phillips was granted conditional bail, including a £10,000 surety, until sentence on July 4.

But Judge Philip Statman warned: “You must understand you are facing a substantial custodial sentence. You may think it sensible to put your affairs in order in the next few weeks.”