A MAN is recovering after he was hit with a bottle in an unprovoked nightclub attack.

The 35-year-old factory team leader, who has not been named, needed seven stitches to his head and will be left scarred.

He had gone into Monty's nightclub in Front Street, Stanley, shortly before midnight on Saturday, after enjoying a few drinks around the town centre.

He was talking to a woman on the edge of the dance floor, when his unknown attacker struck without warning.

He was taken to Durham's University Hospital, where he was treated for a gash at the side of his head.

Det Con Andy Phillips, of Stanley CID, said: "He was not drunk and was talking quite properly to the girl.

"He has no recollection of the attack, which momentarily stunned him and knocked him to the floor.

"He had been hit over the head with a bottle from behind or from the side, causing an injury that will leave him permanently scarred.

"There was absolutely no justification for the attack."

He said the club was busy at the time and is keen to speak to any witnesses, especially the woman who was talking to the victim.

Anyone with information should contact Det Con Phillips at Stanley police station, on (01207) 232144, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.