Attacker bites of part of ear

The 31-year-old had some of his left ear lobe bitten off during the incident, which took place between late Saturday night and the early hours of Sunday morning at the Rathfriland Road in Banbridge.

Both he and a 21-year-old man were rushed to hospital to be treated for their injuries in the horrifying attack which happended close to commercial premises in the area.

DUP councillor Junior McCrum said he was shocked at the violent nature of the incident.

“I would totally condemn this kind of behaviour,” he told the Leader.

“It is completely unacceptable that this type of thing is happening in our town.

“People should be able to go out and about in the town without feeling under threat that this kind of thing might happen to them.”

Councillor McCrum appealed to anyone with information to contact police to ensure someone is brought to justice for the incident.

“It was a vicious attack and the culprit must be brought to justice and feel the full force of the law.

“This type of thing cannot be allowed to happen and then just forgotten about,” he said.

witnesses

Police are appealing for witnesses and information following the incident. Anyone who was in the vicinity of Rathfriland Road or who may have any information, to get in touch on 0845 600 8000.

Alternatively information about crime can be passed anonymously via the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.