Serious assault in Middleton

One man was left with a broken jaw and another with facial injuries after a serious assault in Middleton.

At about 1.30am on Sunday 22 June 2008, one of the victims was trying to stop an argument between a man and a woman outside a takeaway restaurant on Long Street.

One of the men involved in the argument knocked the victim to the ground and, along with two other offenders, started to punch and kick him when on the floor. He was badly bruised in the face as a result.

Another passer by saw this incident and went to try and help the victim. He was assaulted by a group of men, and left unconscious. He suffered a broken jaw.

Detective Constable Heidi Edge said: "This was an unprovoked, senseless attack on two men who were simply trying to help others.

"The victims were being assaulted while unconscious and their injuries were serious.

"We believe that there were around six male offenders in all, who are connected to each other in some way.

"We would appeal to anyone with information to come forward."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 4591 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

A 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault, and was later released on bail.