POLICE are appealing for witnesses to an unprovoked assault in Hartlepool.

A 37-year-old man was walking along Church Street in the town after being out with friends for the night.

At about 3.40am, he reached the junction of Church Street and Whitby Street, where he was assaulted by an unknown man.

He was punched and knocked to the floor, resulting in him needing stitches in the side of his mouth.

Anyone with information to the assault, which took place in the early hours of Friday, August 24, should call Pc Philip Evans on 01642-302126.