POLICE investigating an assault near which left a man hospitalised with facial fractures have appealed to members of the public for information.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said, the incident occurred between 4.30pm and 4.45pm on Station Avenue North, Fencehouses, near Houghton-le-Spring, on Thursday, June 6.

A 39-year-old man was walking when he was attacked from behind by unknown offenders.

He was taken to hospital suffering numerous facial fractures and a fractured jaw as a result of the assault.

An investigation is ongoing into the incident, and officers are now keen to hear from members of the public who witnessed the attack.

The spokesperson said: "The assault took place on a busy main road, so police believe a number of passing motorists or local residents may have seen something.

"We are appealing for anyone with information to contact us."

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 789 060619. Calls can also be made Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively, information can be passed on through the force website at at www.northumbria.police.uk.