REVELLERS are being urged to help police find the man who attacked a woman in a nightclub.

The woman, in her early 20s, was punched in the face by a man she had met at Crocadillos, in Front Street, Chester-le-Street, and danc-ed with earlier.

She suffered a broken nose and severe swelling to one eye. She was treated at the University Hospital of North Durham and will need further surgery.

The attack happened at about 1.30am on Sunday as the club was closing.

Police said the victim, was out with a girlfriend and had met the man, in his late 20s, for the first time that night.

The assault happened near the DJ's booth and the attacker, part of a group of five men, ran off afterwards.

PC Dave Robinson, of Chester-le-Street police, said: "This was a totally unprovoked and callous attack on a young woman who has been left badly injured and shaken as a result.

"The victim was released from hospital, but has to return for surgery and further assessment of the injury to left eye."

The attacker was described as 5ft 8in, of muscular build, with blond hair. He appeared to have a slight squint and was wearing a white shirt and black jeans.

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 0191-388 4311 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.