A 23-YEAR-old man suffered a fractured jaw and cheekbone after being assaulted in Hartlepool.

The victim was walking along Sheriff Street on his way home from a night out some time between 4am and 4.30am on Saturday, December 17, when he was approached from behind and hit to the back of the head by two males, who then left the area.

The victim was unconscious for a short time and was taken to Stockton's University Hospital of North Tees for treatment. He has since undergone surgery as a result of his injuries.

Any witnesses or anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Mark Haworth on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org