POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a disturbance in which two men were injured.

It follows the report of a violent confrontation in the Barley Mow area, between Chester-le-Street and Birtley, at 1.30am this morning (Sunday January 18).

Police and paramedics attended an address in Northumberland Place and found both with injuries requiring hospital treatment.

One of the pair was treated for stab wounds to his back, and remained in hospital in a “stable” condition.

The second man was released after treatment for facial injuries.

It is thought the incident took place in the Barley Mow area between 12.15 and 1.15am.

Inquiries are said to be “ongoing” and police have asked anyone with any information to contact them on 101, extension 69191, quoting reference number 120 18/01/15.