A MAN was left with serious head injuries after being punched in the head during an incident outside a pub in Chester-le-Street.

A 32-year-old man was punched in the head during the "unprovoked assault", which happened outside Chester's, in Front Street, at about 3am on Sunday, October 13. 

He was taken to the University Hospital of North Durham where he was treated for his injuries.

He has since been discharged and is recovering at home.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to the disturbance to come forward. 

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of assault.

A 25-year-old man, was released under investigation, while the other, aged 22, was released with no further action, pending further enquiries.

PC Paul Gooden, from Stanley Serious Crime Team, said: “This was an unprovoked assault which has left the victim with serious head injuries.

“We are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward and speak to us. We are also keen to hear from any taxi drivers who may have passed the location at the time of the incident.”

Anyone with any information should call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 51 of October 13.

Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.