A MAN has been seriously assaulted in Sunderland city centre.

The victim was walking along Vine Place, close to Hays Travel, when he was attacked by a small group of people just before 1.40pm on Saturday afternoon.

Northumbria Police has confirmed his injures were serious but non-life threatening.

Enquiries are ongoing and officers have identified a group of people who are assisting police with their enquiries.

Neighbourhood Detective, Kelly Scott wants to reassure the community, she said: “Incidents like this are rare and our officers are currently carrying out enquiries to establish the circumstances of the incident. We urge anyone with any information, or who may have witnessed the incident, to get in touch with us."

Anyone who can help Northumbria Police with the investigation should contact officers via 101 quoting incident number 601 of April 14.