A MAN is in hospital with serious injuries after asking a group of youngsters to be quiet in a County Durham town.

Officers were called to Dalton Way, in Newton Aycliffe, just before 11.30pm on Saturday (June 25) following reports of an injured man lying in the street.

Durham Police said it was believed the victim, a 44-year-old local man, had left his home to approach some youths about ongoing noise when he was attacked by one or more of the group.

The suspects, who were described as teenage boys and girls, left the area on foot following the incident.

The victim was taken to James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, with a serious head injury.

His condition is described as stable.

Detective Inspector Paul Phillips said: “This was a nasty incident which has left a man in a serious condition in hospital.

“We are appealing to the public to help us trace those involved.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that might help officers investigating is asked to call 101 quoting incident reference 525 of June 25 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.