A MAN has been charged with attempted murder after a brutal attack which left two County Durham men badly hurt, one of them fighting for his life.

Colin Aston Bell, 35, of Alder Grove, Leadgate, is expected to appear before a special hearing at Chester-le-Street magistrates court this morning.

He is accused of the attempted murder of Joe McArdle, 54, of Park Villas, Leadgate, and wounding with intent Tony Lavery, 36, also of Park Villas.

Mr McArdle, who is said to be a well-known local man, was left fighting for his life with serious head injuries following the attack.

He underwent emergency surgery at Durham University Hospital on Thursday morning for injuries that included a fractured skull.

Later in the day he was transferred to the intensive care unit at Newcastle General Hospital where he is still on a life support machine and his condition is described as critical.

Mr Lavery later underwent minor surgery and follow-up treatment at Shotley Bridge Hospital and was expected to be released last night.

Detective Superintendent Harry Stephenson, who is leading the 30-strong inquiry team, said it was vital that anyone in the Park Villa area between 12.30am and 1.30am on Thursday, who might have heard a disturbance or who might have seen an injured man in Front Street, should get in touch with police as a matter of urgency.

Police are also interested in hearing from revellers at an 18th birthday party who were nearby at the time.

Det Supt Stephenson believes people attending a party at nearby Wingrove Terrace might also be able to shed light on the attack.

Anyone with information should contact Consett police on (01207) 504204 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.