A MAN has been hospitalised after a suspected machete attack.

The incident, which happened in the Monkton Road area of Hartlepool at about 4.15pm on Saturday, involved as many as 15 people and a machete, according to local residents.

One resident reported seeing car debris and a baseball bat in an area cordoned off by police. The victim, a 42 year old male from Hartlepool, is being treated in hospital for leg injuries. A 25-year-old man has been arrested for assault.

Police confirmed that several people and vehicles had been involved in the incident.

A police investigation is ongoing and any witnesses or anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Hartlepool police station on 01642-302126.