Police have appealed for a victim who was allegedly "punched" and "kicked in the head" to come forward after a 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault.

Officers were called to Colenso Street in Hartlepool on Thursday (July 18) just before 9pm following reports of an assault on a woman.

It is understood that the woman was punched and kicked in the head but left the incident with another woman.

Police now want to confirm the woman's safety as enquiries in to the incident continue.

A police statement reads: "A 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault following the incident, which happened at 8.50pm on Thursday 18 July 2024 at the junction of Colenso Street and Elwick Road in Hartlepool.

"A woman was punched and sustained a kick to the head and left the area after the incident with another woman.

"Officers would like to speak to the victim in relation to the investigation and to make sure she is safe.

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"The 26-year-old man has been released on bail pending further investigation.

"Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who knows who the victim is, is asked to contact Cleveland Police.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact officers via 101, quoting reference number SE24135966."