POLICE have launched an investigation after a man suffered serious injuries during a late night town centre disturbance.

The victim required medical treatment at the University Hospital of North Durham, in Durham City, after the incident near the bus station in Stanley on Sunday night, December 28

It is understood the injured man lost several teeth during the confrontation, which also left him suffering from two black eyes as well as severe swelling and bruising to his head, neck and body.

Police have been informed and are making inquiries to establish what has happened.

Inspector Keith Wardle said: “There has obviously been an incident at the bus station in the town centre at Stanley. Exactly what has happened is unclear at this stage.

“It would seem that five people were involved in some sort of altercation in the street and police officers have attended the scene.

“A crime of affray has been recorded. We are investigating to find out what has happened.”

No arrests have been made and police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward to help with the inquiry.

Anyone with information can call the police non-emergency number on 101 or the Crimestoppers free phone line anonymously on 0800-555-111.