A MAN is in a critical condition after being attacked on a busy North-East street.

The 34-year-old, who lives locally, was attacked on Normanby Road, South Bank, in Middlesbrough, near its junction with Market Street.

He suffered severe facial and internal injuries after being repeatedly kicked and punched, and was last night seriously ill in Middlesbrough General Hospital.

The incident happened at about 5.15pm on Saturday, when the area was busy with traffic and pedestrians.

The man's attacker is described as 5ft 10in to 6ft, broad built, in his late 20s or early 30s, with light, cropped hair. He was wearing a light shirt, jeans and rigger boots.

Following the attack, he got into a D-registration off-road style vehicle, possibly gold or silver, which was parked on Normanby Road. It did a U-turn and was driven off towards Eston.

Witnesses are asked to call police on (01642) 302626