Police Appeal Following Hereford City Centre Assault

Police in Hereford are appealing for witnesses to an assault that occurred in Hereford on New Years Eve.

The incident occurred in the area between WH Smiths and the ice rink in the city centre on Saturday 31 December 2011.

Sometime between 3pm and 4pm it appears that an altercation occurred between the victim - a 19-year-old man who was with some friends - and another group of young people.

It has been reported that a verbal altercation started after an item was thrown at the victim's girlfriend but it appears that the altercation then became violent.

A short time after the altercation the victim passed out and was rushed to hospital. The victim was treated for a suspected broken jaw and a number of broken teeth by medical staff but has since been discharged from hospital.

Two men - aged 18 and 19 - have been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with this incident and they have been bailed pending further enquiries.

Officers investigating this incident believe the city centre was very busy at the time it occurred and therefore they are very keen to trace anyone who may have witnessed the altercation itself, or any of the events leading up to it.

Anyone who believes they may have information about this incident is asked to call officers in Hereford on 0300 333 3000.

Alternatively, please remember that Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you'd rather leave information without getting directly involved yourself.

Issued: Thursday 5 January 2012