POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an unprovoked attack left a man with a broken neck.

Scott Myers, 37, was beaten unconscious by thugs outside the Emporium pub, in Hartlepool.

Mr Myers, who was drinking in the pub with friends, was waiting in the foyer when he said he was struck on the head for no reason. His friends returned from the toilet to see him being dragged into a nearby alleyway by three men.

Mr Myers is still in hospital and may need to wear a neck support for the next six months. Doctors said he was lucky to survive the attack, which has left him with four bolts in his head to keep the brace in place.

Police arrested a man in connection with the incident on Sunday, January 23, and released him on bail.

Anyone with information is asked to call (01642) 302126.