POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a man suffered head and facial injuries in a fight outside a pub.

Police were called to the Golden Lion, in Front Street, Leadgate, shortly after 11pm on Wednesday, where the victim was unconscious on the pavement.

The 37-year-old local man was taken by ambulance to the University Hospital of North Durham and then transferred to Newcastle General Hospital. His condition last night was critical but stable.

Detective Sergeant Paul D'eath said police believed the victim left the pub with another man shortly before he was found.

"The victim's injuries suggest he was subjected to a sustained attack, and I would urge anyone who saw what happened to contact us," he said. "I would also appeal to anyone who was in the public house in the time leading up to the incident to contact us."

Call 0845-60-60-365 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.

A 29-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm and is being questioned by Consett police.