A TEENAGER had his face smashed in an incident being investigated by police.

He was attacked on the footpath outside the Kwik Save store in Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, at about midday last Friday.

He was approached by a man who struck him in the face, causing three fractures to his left cheek bone.

The victim was taken to The James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, where he received treatment for his injuries.

Police, who launched an appeal for witnesses, yesterday, said at at the time of the incident, there were many potential witnesses. Officers are keen to speak to anyone who saw the attack, particularly three people who took the injured man in their car to Middlesbrough police station.

They would also like to speak to a man who was seen talking to a suspect before the incident.

Information can be given to PC Andrew Hudson, on 01642-301923 or Crimestoppers, on 0800-555-111.

* A 19-year-old man was arrested following the incident, interviewed and released on police bail.