Man narrowly avoids blindness after violent bottle attack outside of working men's club

Police were called to Houghton Comrades WMC on Newbottle Street, shortly after 11pm on November 9, following reports that a group of up to 30 people were involved in an altercation outside.

On arrival police found a man with a severe cut above and below his left eye.

It was reported that as the man was helping to defuse a situation, a woman struck the victim in the face with a bottle, causing him significant injuries.

An investigation is ongoing and police are now appealing for any witnesses come forward.

Detective Constable Dave King, of Northumbria Police’s Southern CID, said: “This was a particularly nasty assault that could have so easily resulted in life changing injuries.

"The victim has suffered a serious cut above and below his left eye, which had to be operated on sustaining 40 - 50 stitches.

“He is incredibly fortunate that he has not partially lost his sight or suffered full blindness.

"As a result of this assault, he sustained significant injuries both physically and emotionally.

"We understand that his injuries followed a disagreement involving a large group of people, to which he had no involvement.

"We are now appealing to those people and anyone who was in the vicinity and witnessed what happened to come forward.

“This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable and we will continue to carry out enquiries to establish exactly what has happened."

Anyone with information should contact 101 quoting 1203 091119 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.