Man breaks back following attack

A punch to the face could have left a man paralysed after he fell backwards onto a wooden fence in Middleton.

At about 3.15am on Sunday 14 July 2013, the 27-year-old man had an argument with the offender at the forecourt of a petrol station on Greengate.

The offender then punched the man to the face, sending him crashing into a wooden fence, fracturing his vertebrae.

Detectives have described the offender, who left the scene after the assault, as white, of medium build, in his mid to late 20s and about 5ft 9in tall. He had short dark hair which was balding and was wearing a red, long-sleeved shirt.

Detective Constable Michael Berger said: “Tragically there have been cases where one punch has led to fatal injuries and in this case the victim has been effectively left with a broken back, and could have therefore been left paralysed.

“I would urge any witnesses who may have seen this incident to come forward so we can help find the man responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 8576 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.