Police in new appeal to catch man who attacked clubber

Detectives investigating after a man who stepped in to prevent an argument escalating was assaulted and needed 10 stitches last night re-appealed for help tracing those responsible.

They are re-appealing and urging anyone who may recognise the man in a CCTV image they have released to come forward following the attack at Fire Bar, in Leeds.

Det Con Jason Ridgway, of British Transport Police’s criminal investigation department, said this kind of violent behaviour would not be tolerated and said investigations were continuing to find out those responsible for the assault last month.

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He said: “In the early hours of Sunday, December 4, 2011, the victim, a 22-year-old from Leeds, was in the club when he noticed one of his friends in a heated argument with a group of men near the dance floor.

“In a bid to prevent the argument from escalating, he stepped in, an altercation then took place, causing the group to fall to the floor. The aggravators were ejected from the club by bar supervisor staff.”

The victim was left with an injury to his abdomen which required hospital treatment and ten stitches in his abdomen.

British Transport Police (BTP) are continuing their inquiries and have spoken to local security staff in the area and are studying CCTV footage to try and identify those responsible. They are keen to speak to the man in a CCTV image that they have released.

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Det Con Ridgway said: “The victim was left with a very serious injury and we are working to establish what caused it. I need witnesses to come forward and help us build a full picture of what took place that night.

“Violent behaviour like this will not be tolerated – we work closely with Fire Bar supervisors and staff to enable revellers have an enjoyable night without fear of this kind of vicious attack.”

Det Con Ridgway added last night: “I’d urge anyone who recognises the man featured in the CCTV or has any information about the attack to come forward and assist detectives in this investigation.”

Information can be given to British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting B7/NEA of 19/01/2012. Crimestoppers can also be contacted, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.