A MAN had an ear almost bitten clean off in an unprovoked street attack.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said the 48-year-old victim was taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough where he was treated after having his ear almost severed.

The victim and a woman had been walking along Waveney Road, Redcar, and had reached its junction with Welland Road when they were approached by two men. The victim was then attacked.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: "For no apparent reason an unprovoked attack then took place.

"One of the suspects bit the man's ear, causing severe injuries. He carried out further attacks before he ran off with his companion."

The incident occurred about 1.15am on New Year's Day near Redcar Community College.

The assailant is described as a white male, aged 20 to 24 years of age, 5ft 8ins tall, slim build with dark wavy hair.

He is said to have big wide eyes and wore smart dark clothing.

The man's companion was not involved in the assault but is described as a white, aged approximately 17 years and was between 5ft 3ins and 5ft 4ins tall with short brown fair hair. He was wearing a white tracksuit top which appeared to be several sizes too big.

Anyone with any information, should contact PC Dave Alcock at Redcar Neighbourhood Policing Team, telephone 01642-302828.