THREE women and a man were assaulted during a large disturbance in the early hours.

Police were called to the market place area of Crook, County Durham, at about 3am on Sunday to reports of a disturbance.

It is believed a woman was struck by a man and left with minor injuries following an argument.

A spokesperson for Durham Police said the man then went on to assault another two women who were attempting to calm him down.

They did not receive any injuries.

It is understood the man made off towards Croft Avenue where another man was assaulted.

DC Graeme Hopkirk, from Bishop Auckland CID, said: “The victims were left extremely distressed following the incident which took place in the early hours of Sunday morning.

“We have been made aware that around 30 people were believed to be in the market place at the time of the incident and would ask those who witnessed anything to come forward.”

  • A 29-year old man has since been arrested on suspicion of affray and has been released under investigation.
  • Anyone who has any information relating to the incident is asked call 101 quoting reference number 81 of August 12.