AN investigation is underway after six people were injured outside a North-East nightclub.

A 41-year-old man was having a cigarette with another man, 21, outside the Royal Standard pub, on West Dyke Road, Redcar, at about 11.40pm on Saturday when he was approached by a stranger and punched in the face, resulting in a broken jaw.

Witnesses to the incident tried to stop the man causing further injuries, but they were also assaulted.

Six people were injured, including four who were taken to James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough for treatment.

A 21-year-old man and a woman, 19, have since been released.

The man with the broken jaw remains in hospital along with a 39-year-old man with a broken leg.

The suspect is described as being between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 9ins tall, with a slim build and possibly in his early 20s. He is believed to have left in a silver car.

Detectives investigating the case believe it was an unprovoked attack, although investigations are ongoing.

Witnesses are asked to call DC Glen Harland on 01642-302626 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.