DETECTIVES have launched a murder probe after a 41-year-old man who was assaulted, died as a result of his injuries.

At around 6.30pm on Wednesday evening a 41-year-old man was attacked outside the Gospel Methodist Church on Bensham Road, Gateshead.

He suffered serious head injuries as a result of the attack and was taken to hospital.

At 8pm on Friday, September 9, the man died as a result of his injuries.

Enquiries into the incident have been ongoing and detectives have arrested three men - aged 20, 22 and 22 - in connection with the attack.

Police are continuing to appeal for anyone with any information into the incident to come forward - in particular, three people who officers believe were in the area at the time and who could have vital information into what happened.

DCI Ged Noble, from Northumbria Police's major investigation team, said: "There are three people who we believe were in the Bensham Road area on Wednesday evening and who we really need to identify and speak to.

"I must stress that these people are being treated as potential witnesses and may have very important information as to what happened. I'd urge them to get in touch with police as soon as possible.

"One is a woman who was carrying a NEXT carrier bag, the second is a man who was wearing a grey and white hooded top and the third is a man who was wearing a baseball cap.

"If you were in the area and think you may have any information that could help with the investigation then contact us as soon as possible.

"I want to reassure the public that we have arrested three people in connection with the incident and they are currently being interviewed by detectives. There are extra patrols in the area and if anyone has any concerns they can contact the local neighbourhood policing team."

Anyone with any information about what happened is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 03456 043 043 ext 69191 or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.