POLICE have renewed an appeal for help in tracing a road rage attacker who slashed his victim's arm and face.

Investigations into the attack, nine months ago, have failed to track down the driver, who used a four-inch knife on his victim.

The attack happened on the A68, between Darlington and West Auckland, in County Durham.

Last night, Detective Sergeant Alec Francis, of Darlington police, said officers were ready to act on any new information. He said: "The offender has never been caught."

The 26-year-old victim was overtaken by a car on a bend, at about 12.45am on a Wednesday in May last year.

He flashed his lights and sounded his horn in annoyance, and the other driver slowed down, stopping his car at an angle, to block the victim's way.

The attack took place when both drivers got out. The victim drove to a lay-by and called for help on a mobile phone.

The suspect was in his 30s, white, about 6ft and of stocky build. He had short, dark hair and gold, hooped earrings.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police, on (01325) 467681, or Crimestoppers, on 0800 555111.