A MAN was taken to hospital after he was punched, kicked and stabbed near a pizza shop in a North-East town.

Detectives in Hartlepool are appealing for information about the assault, which happened in York Road, at about 7.05pm on Friday.

Officers say the victim was punched, kicked and stabbed in the leg near to Siciliano's Pizza Shop.

He was taken to hospital and has since been discharged.

Detectives say that investigations are at an early stage, but they believe it was a targeted attack.

They are appealing for drivers who may have witnessed anything, or who have dashcam footage, to come forward to assist with enquiries.

A 'stocky' man wearing a grey tracksuit with the hood up and black trainers was seen running from the scene towards the Elliott Street junction.

Detectives are also appealing for anyone with private CCTV of the incident or the man running away from the scene to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to call Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101 quoting ref 047305 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.