A TERRIFIED young man pleaded for his life when he was subjected to a vicious attack by a stranger.

The 21-year-old was attacked as he walked home from work in Darlington on Friday, April 6.

The man, a factory operator, says he was approached by another man near the town's Civic Theatre at about 10.30pm. He followed him into Borough Road and began kicking and punching him.

Then the man, who he believes was under the influence of drugs, apologised to him and said he was upset because he had just split up with his girlfriend. But the victim was then dragged to a nearby house where the attack continued.

He said: "When we were in the house, some of my blood went on the wall and he made me clean it up before continuing to hit me."

"I thought he was going to kill me but after about half an hour in the house, he let me go."

The attack left the man with a broken arm and cuts and bruises. He has been unable to return to work and frightened to leave the house.

Darlington police can be contacted on (01325) 467681. People can also contact Crimestoppers (0800) 555111.