A MAN had part of his ear bitten off and his leg broken in two places during an attack.

Two men assaulted the 37-year-old in Broadwell Road, Middlesbrough, shortly after midnight on Friday.

Detective Inspector Gary Curnow, of Middlesbrough CID, said: "This was a violent attack in which a man has received horrific injuries and permanent disfigurement.

"Someone who is prepared to use this extreme level of violence in such an unnecessary way must be caught."

He said the assault followed an argument with a man at a bus stop. The victim was hit with a bottle of wine and had part of his ear bitten off.

The assailant fled but the victim gave chase and, farther along Broadwell Road, the attacker and an accomplice assaulted him.

He suffered the leg break while lying on the floor, but it is unclear if it was because of the fall or force.

The victim had been drinking in The Viking pub, in Broughton Avenue, Easterside, and was on his way home when the attack happened.

He reached a relative's home where an ambulance was called. He later underwent surgery.

Anyone with information can contact the incident room on (01642) 303126 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.