POLICE investigating a brawl between rival gangs which left a man needing plastic surgery have had a "disappointing" response from the public.

Despite that, detectives arrested nine people - men and women - in swoops across Derwentside yesterday, on suspicion of violent disorder during a fight at the 70s City nightclub, in Consett, in the early hours of Sunday.

They were expected to be released without charge on police bail last night, after being questioned at Stanley and Consett police stations.

The fight, which involved gangs from Consett and the Highfield area of Rowlands Gill, began in the club before spilling on to the streets, at about 1am.

One man in his 20s, from Highfield, had to undergo an operation after having part of his right ear bitten off.

Police have issued several appeals for information following the trouble at the club, which held about 350 people at the time.

But yesterday, detective sergeant Vic Deanes said: "The response to these appeals have been practically non-existent, which has been very disappointing.

"We are looking for anyone who may have been in the nightclub at the time to come forward."

Anyone with information is asked to call police, on (01207) 504204.