Detectives investigating an assault in Gateshead have appealed to the public for information.

Shortly after 3.15pm yesterday (Friday) police were called to a disturbance outside an address in Monument Court, Chopwell, after it was reported a number of men were fighting in the street.

Officers attended and two men – aged 38 and 35 – were taken to hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries consistent with having been caused by a knife and a blunt instrument.

An investigation has been launched into the incident and police have arrested a 31-year-old man on suspicion of wounding with intent to commit grievous bodily harm and a 35-year-old man on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

Both men remain in custody at this time and are assisting officers with their enquiries.

Detective Sergeant Tam Fowler, of Northumbria Police, has now appealed for anyone who witnessed the disturbance to come forward and assist with the investigation.

He said: “This was clearly a very serious incident that happened in the middle of the street in broad daylight.

“It resulted in two men being taken to hospital with non-life threatening but potentially life-changing injuries. We are now committed to determining the circumstances surrounding this attack.

“At present, we believe all parties involved were known to each other and this was an isolated incident – but we would like to reiterate that this type of behaviour is totally unacceptable and those found to be responsible can expect to be dealt with swiftly and robustly.

“We take this type of criminality incredibly seriously and an experienced team of detectives will continue to carry out a number of enquiries this weekend. We have so far arrested two suspects in connection with the incident and they remain in custody at this time.

“I would now ask anybody who saw the disturbance, and who has any information that can assist our investigation, to come forward and get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to get in touch by visiting the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website quoting log 566 270320.

Alternatively, you can email 933@northumbria.pnn.police.uk or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.