A CLUBBER was subjected to a vicious attack which left him unconscious.

The 19-year-old was punched and kicked in an unprovoked attack in Escapades nightclub in Darlington.

The victim was in the gents toilets at about 2am on Easter Monday when he was punched in the face by a youth described as stocky, aged 17 or 18, and wearing a 'Paul and Shark' t-shirt.

As the victim made a desperate bid for escape, he was hauled back by his attacker who then put him in a headlock and hit him several more times around the head.

He fell to the floor where he was kicked until he fell unconscious.

He was treated at Darlington Memorial Hospital before being allowed home.

The victim described his attacker as white, around 5ft 9in tall with very short, dark brown hair.

Police are asking clubbers for help with their investigations.

Detectives particularly want to speak to a second young man, who was in the toilets at the same time.

The witness is described as white, about 5ft 11in with a skinny build, and aged about 17 or 18.

He had short, ginger hair and may have been wearing a white and blue jacket.

Police are also hoping to trace a third man who was in the toilets at that time - he was of Asian appearance, 6ft, medium build with dark, spiky hair.

He was wearing a red and blue striped jumper.

Investigating officer PC Gary McLean said: "This was a violent and unprovoked assault which left the victim with bruising and swelling all over his face.

"At that time the club was very busy, with up to 800 people on the premises.

"I would urge anyone who knows the identity of those involved to come forward."

Anyone with information should contact PC McLean through 0845-6060-365 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555111.