Barman punched and kicked after trying to break up rowdy gang

A barman was brutally attacked in a "dangerous and reckless" assault after he attempted to defuse a situation with a disruptive group.

The incident happened at the Southport Coaster pub at around 11.30pm on Friday, April 12. Police said ywo men and a woman came into the pub on Lord Street and an argument broke out between them, resulting in the woman being ejected by staff for her "aggressive" behaviour.

Following this, one of the men violently pushed the barman to the ground and proceeded to punch and kick him, leaving the victim "shaken" and in need of medical attention at the hospital. The assailant fled towards the Prince of Wales hotel, and police are now scouring CCTV footage and seeking witnesses.

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Officers have released images of a man who they believe could help with their enquiries. Anyone who recognises the man is asked to get in contact.

Inspector Edward Barr said: "This was a dangerous and reckless attack that has left the victim shaken and he required hospital treatment for his injuries. This incident took place at a time when the area would have been busy with people enjoying the start of the weekend, so if you were in the vicinity and saw anything, then please contact us.

"We are taking this incident extremely seriously and I am appealing to the man featured in these images, or anyone who recognises him to come forward. We believe he could hold information that could be vital to our continuing enquiries."

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook with reference 24000336267. You can also call 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.