A MAN is in a critical condition in hospital after suffering serious injuries in an assault.

The incident in Newcastle was reported to police at 2.09am this morning after a 28-year-old man was attacked in the Bigg Market.

The injured man was taken to the city's Royal Victoria Infirmary.

"A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with this incident and in custody helping officers with their enquiries," said a spokesman for Northumbria Police.

Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 ext 69191 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.