DETECTIVES are appealing for information after a man was slashed across the hand after he refused to hand over his bag.

It happened when he was returning to his Jesmond home, Newcastle, at 12.30am yesterday.

The man got off a Metro train and walked the short distance to his home, where he became aware of a man behind him who demanded he hand over his bag.

He refused and the man slashed his hand, which required stitches. Nothing was stolen.

The attacker was described as aged 25 to 30, 5ft 10in, with a scruffy appearance.

Anyone with information is asked to call detectives on 0191-214 6555, extension 62226. They would particularly like to hear from a couple who may have been sitting near the victim or walking close to him after he got off the train