A PENSIONER is recovering after being attacked outside a fish and chip shop.

The incident took place at 11.45pm on Saturday, after a disturbance outside Bells Fish Shop, Union Street, Middlesbrough.

The 66-year-old man ran outside the shop to see if he could help, and as he knelt down to remove a bottle from the floor, he was struck several times on his head and body.

He was treated at Middlesbrough General Hospital for severe bruising, cuts, a broken nose and scratches.

A 17-year-old youth arrested on suspicion of assault was later released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC Andrew Hill on (01642) 303126.