A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man died following an assault.

A 35-year-old man suffered a serious head injury following an incident in Cramlington on Saturday.

Officers were called to the scene in the Romsey Close shortly after 1am after being alerted by the ambulance service. The man was taken to hospital but died on Sunday.

Six teenagers aged between 16 and 17 have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Northumbria Police Detective Inspector Joanne Brooks, the senior investigating officer on the case, said: “First and foremost are thoughts are with the family of the man who has sadly lost his life as a result of this tragic incident. We have specialist family liaison officers who are supporting them at this devastating time and I would ask that the family’s privacy is respected as they come to terms with their loss.

“Sadly, as a result of the attack, the victim suffered significant injuries and died in hospital the following day.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish exactly what has happened and how the victim in this case has ultimately lost his life. A team of detectives are now working to establish the facts and we’d encourage any witnesses to come forward. A number of people are believed to have been in the area near the time of the attack, so we want to hear from those people – as well as any motorists passing that area at the time who may have dashcam footage.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the force's website or by calling 101 quoting log 82 290521.

Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report information at the Northumbria Police website.