A TEENAGER was left with 'life-changing injuries' after being allegedly assaulted on a night out.

The 18-year-old suffered a broken jaw, fractured cheek bone and lost a tooth following an incident in the early hours of Sunday, October 6.

It is believed he left Inside Out nightclub, in Beaumont Street, Darlington, and was heading to get a taxi home, but was allegedly attacked in an alleyway leading to Grange Road.

Not realising how serious his injuries were at the time, he managed to walk home and was found by his family in the morning covered in blood.

He was taken to James Cook University Hospital and has since undergone surgery.

Officers from Durham Police would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any information to identify the attacker.

Detective Constable, Paul Cooper, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is a serious assault which has left the victim with life-changing injuries.

“Thankfully the victim is receiving the treatment he needs.

“We are doing everything we can for the victim and his family and would ask if anyone has witnessed the incident or is able to provide any help or information please call 101 and ask to speak to Darlington CID, quoting reference number 235 of October 6.”

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.