Man stamped on during violent and unprovoked assault

A man was stamped on during a violent and unprovoked assault in Middleton.

At about 10.15pm on Saturday 8 September 2012, a 38-year-old man, who was in a wooded area near to Hopwood Hall College, was approached by four men, who launched into a violent attack.

During the assault the man was kicked to the ground and further kicked, punched and stamped on as he tried to protect himself.

The offenders then removed his black bubble coat and the victim ran off, only to be chased by the men who further assaulted him.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to a broken collar bone, fractured cheekbone, suspected fractured jaw and eye socket, a large head wound that required stitches and another wound above his eye. He remains in hospital for treatment to his injuries.

Detective Constable Claire Ramsden, of Rochdale CID, said: “This was a completely unprovoked assault by four thugs on a lone, vulnerable man.

“The level of violence used was appalling and he has suffered some extremely nasty injuries as a result.

“If anyone was in the area at the time of the incident, knows who is responsible or has heard anyone talk about this I would urge them to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 4646, or Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.