POLICE are appealing for information after a man was attacked on New Year's Day.
The victim was approached by four men while walking home after a night out in Darlington.
One of the men punched him in the face and he fell to ground before passing out.
The victim, aged in his mid-40s, sustained cuts and bruising to his head and face, and three of his teeth were knocked out.
He received treatment at Darlington Memorial Hospital.
The attack happened in Conniscliffe Road, at its junction with Stanhope Road, between 9pm and 10pm.
PC Jason Ruck said: "The nature of the victim's injuries were such that we believe he was subjected to further blows after he passed out.
"This was a nasty, unprovoked attack on a man heading home after being out socialising in the town.
"The four men involved appeared to be engaged in horseplay as they approached him and I would appeal to anyone who saw them or the assault itself to get in touch."
The four men, two of whom were wearing woollen hats, were white, of medium build and aged between 25 and 30.
They were wearing dark trousers, dark shoes and blue jeans.
Call PC Ruck on 0345-60-60-365 with information.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.
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